A RESTRAINING order failed to stop a domestic abuser from attacking his victim again, a court heard today.

Mark Irwin Crang, 47, attacked his ex-girlfriend just weeks after being handed a restraining order relating to domestic abuse against the same woman.

Darlington Magistrates Court heard that he breached the order – made in October - by accepting her invitation to her home.

Chris Wood, prosecuting, said that Crang – of The Byway, Darlington - had fallen asleep on a sofa and was woken by his victim, who became angry after finding texts from other women on his phone.

During the row that followed, Crang wrapped his legs around the woman’s shoulders in move that left her fearing for her life – though he claimed he was trying to restrain her.

Neighbours who heard the woman screaming called police and Crang admitted breaching his restraining order.

Stephanie Thompson, mitigating, said: “He fully accepts his wrongdoing and should not have gone round there.”

Judge Adrian Lower handed Crang a 12 month community order with 100 hours of unpaid work.

He was also made to pay a victim surcharge of £60 and costs of £85.

Judge Lower said: “It is not for you to decide whether or not you comply with court orders.

“The court expects orders to be obeyed.

“Have no doubt, if you breach it in the future, custody will be uppermost in the mind of the courts, to bring home to you and to send a strong message to others that there will be consequences if you breach a court order.”

The court also heard that Crang’s victim had refused to give a statement to the police, telling officers that there was no point complaining as, despite asking for help before, she had been attacked again.