Man accused of killing Georgina Ward in 2020 appears in Dudley court | UK news
A man appeared in court charged with manslaughter, assault and coercive and controlling behaviour.
Daniel Birtwistle, 39, of Tamworth, Staffordshire, appeared at Dudley magistrates court by video link on Thursday morning, where he spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth.
He has been charged over the death of 24-year-old Georgina Ward, a “brilliant, creative and talented” tattoo artist who was found dead at her home in Dudley in November 2020.
In addition to the manslaughter charge, Birtwistle was charged with two counts of controlling and coercive behavior and three counts of assault in relation to Ward, which allegedly occurred between August 2019 and November 2020.
“Georgina was an extraordinary young woman,” her family said in a statement. “A daughter, granddaughter, sister and friend who brought laughter and light to the lives of those she touched.
“He was a brilliant, creative and talented tattoo artist with a promising future and career in the industry, whose artwork now has a lasting legacy.
“Georgina loved deeply and unconditionally, placing the needs of others above her own. Her capacity for empathy and compassion for people, animals and those less fortunate was immeasurable.
“He was a protector, a voice for the voiceless, and a beacon of love in a world that often forgets the importance of kindness.
“Georgina will forever be remembered and loved for her funny, caring nature and unapologetic self.
“Our lives have been irrevocably changed by her loss and she is missed beyond measure, which is an absolute testament to the kind of person she was. She is beautiful inside and out.”
Birtwistle was also charged with six counts of assault and one count of controlling and coercive behavior against three other women.
During the short hearing, he was released on bail until the next hearing. Magistrates imposed conditions on his release on bail, stating that he must not contact any of the other three alleged victims, live at a specific address and surrender his passport to a police station.
Birtwistle, who is not asked to enter a plea, is expected to appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court on November 13 for a defense and case management hearing.
