Cyber-security businesswoman denies assault on ex

Melanie Oldham was awarded an OBE in 2022 for her work in cyber-security

A businesswoman awarded an OBE for her work in cyber-security has denied assaulting her ex-partner.

Melanie Oldham is accused of punching and kicking Martin Oldham at his home in Holmfirth on Christmas Day in 2023.

The 46-year-old, who is chief executive of Barnsley-based cyber-security firm Bob's Business, received an OBE in 2022 for her outstanding contributions to the field.

Huddersfield Magistrates' Court was told Ms Oldham, of The Cuttings, Brockholes, Holmfirth, punched her ex in the face when he answered the door, causing him to the fall to the floor.

'Not true reflection'

Prosecutor Fiona Newcombe said: "She then entered the address and continued to lash out, attempting to hit him several times."

Defending, Mr Khan said the prosecution's version of events was "not a true reflection of the full circumstances leading up to the incident".

He told magistrates that since 2017, Mrs Oldham had been subject to "coercion, exploitation and assault".

He added: "This is an incident that has been brewing over a number of years and there have been a number of other crimes that need to be investigated."

Magistrates said because there were "a number of complex issues" in the case, it would be dealt with at Leeds Crown Court.

Ms Oldham, who pleaded not guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, was released on bail to appear at crown court on 23 July.

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