Man charged over killing of ex-lover in brutal attack

Oct 2 2009 The Journal

THE ex-lover of Kathryn Cook has appeared in court charged with her murder.

Yesterday’s hearing at Consett Magistrates’ Court was the first time Paul Northey has appeared in court in connection with the offence.

The 40-year-old, formerly of Wylam Road, Stanley, is currently serving an eight-year stretch behind bars after pleading guilty earlier this year at Durham Crown Court to causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Ms Cook, a mum-of-one, was found unconscious with severe head injuries by her daughter Rebecca, then aged 10, at their home in Penshaw Gardens, Stanley, in June 2008.

For months she lay in a coma at Bishop Auckland General Hospital.

She never regained consciousness and died in January this year, three days after her former lover was jailed by a Durham judge for the brutal attack.

During yesterday’s brief court hearing Northey, dressed in black shirt and trousers, spoke only to confirm his name and address.

John Garside, for the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “This is an indictable offence that can only be dealt with at crown court.

“We invite you to send the matter to Newcastle Crown Court for a preliminary hearing.

He added: “We invite the court to remand the defendant in custody for this offence. The defendant is before the court charged with murder, however, he is currently serving an eight-year sentence for a section 18 offence.

“The victim has since died and there is evidence to link this offence.”

Paul Hanratty, mitigating, made no representations and made no application for bail.

Chairman of the bench David Balls told Northey: “You will remain in custody. This is a serious offence and you are a serving prisoner.”

Northey will appear at Newcastle Crown Court on October 7 in connection with Ms Cook’s murder.