Freed from prison after case folds

Concerns about mental health

A Douglas man accused of punching his girlfriend has walked free from court, after her complaint was withdrawn.

Geoffrey Ronald Barber, of Mona Drive, had entered no plea following the alleged attack eight weeks ago.

The 30 year-old had been remanded in prison since 28 March.

But concerns about the victim's mental health today (Tue) convinced prosecuting advocates not to proceed with the case.

Deputy High Bailiff Jayne Hughes voiced concerns about the amount of time the defendant had spent in custody - and announced she would be seeking answers from the Director of Public Prosecutions.