A MAN accused of stopping his ex-boyfriend from contacting friends and family and placing a tracker on his car will stand trial next month.

James Higgie, of Ryall Court, Northwich, appeared at Warrington Magistrates Court on Friday (February 23) where he denied three charges, including one of controlling and coercive behaviour.

Prosecuting the case, Nicola Park told the court the 39-year-old reportedly stopped the complainant from being able to access his own finances, as well as contacting members of his family or friends.

Ms Park added Higgie allegedly waited outside of a hospital for the man on one occasion to ensure 'he did not go anywhere else'.

The defendant is also accused of placing a tracker on his ex-partner's car so he could track his location, as well as destroying his birth certificate.

Other incidents of coercion included Higgie reportedly making threats to cause damage to property if the complainant ‘did not reconcile the relationship’.

“There was persistence over a long period of time and numerous ways of causing the victim distress,” Ms Park added.

Higgie pleaded not guilty to the charges of engaging in coercive behaviour, criminal damage and threatening to damage property.

Following the pleas, magistrates concluded the hearing by escalating the case to Chester Crown Court for trial.

The trial will commence on March 22, with the defendant granted conditional bail.