A violent man throttled his ex-girlfriend and then later threatened to break her jaw in a row over a mobile phone.

Andrew Brewster went to his former partner's flat in Gosfield Road, Herne Bay, at about 7pm one night and forced his way in before pushing her to the ground. Thurs, July 29

At a hearing this week at Folkestone Magistrates' Court, the prosecution described how the 34-year-old then "placed his hands around her throat" and gripped her in that position for about 10 seconds. Tues, Aug 4

The court heard how the victim was left "shaking with fear" after Brewster let go, but she got to her feet and pushed him away.

The thug - who had been drinking - then poured a bottle of cider over his ex and left.

Police were called and took a statement from her, but they were unable to locate Brewster.

At about 11pm the next day he returned to the property, where the victim lives with her two children.

He kicked her door, causing damage to it, and then punched the glass, which did not break.

In statements given to police after the second incident, neighbours recalled that he said: "I swear I will break your jaw."

The woman subsequently decided to support a prosecution, saying in a statement she has been "so terrified" by the incidents.

Brewster, of Cornwall Gardens in Spring Lane, Canterbury, pleaded guilty to one charge of criminal damage and another of assault by beating.

Hugh Roberts, defending, told the court that domestic violence cases are "never black and white" and that his client had simply gone to the property to retrieve his mobile phone.

"He has been explaining to me that he has been suffering from depression and has a serious alcohol problem," Mr Roberts said, "He wants to do something about it."

Brewster, heavily tattooed and wearing a blue polo shirt and grey jogging bottoms as he appeared in court, was remanded in custody while pre-sentencing reports prepared.

He is due to reappear before the same court next Thursday for sentencing. Aug 12

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