Christopher Simpson: Portadown man wanted over serious domestic abuse offences in court facing new stalking and burglary charges

Christopher Simpson, 39, is also accused of harassing and defrauding a woman along with a series of motoring offences.

Simpson, of Glanroy Avenue, Portadown, had reportedly been a fugitive since a bench warrant was issued in April 2025.

Police arrested him after stopping a car on the M5 motorway on the outskirts of north Belfast on New Years’ Eve.

He appeared before Belfast Magistrates Court to face a total of 16 new charges.

Simpson is accused of stalking, harassment, improper use of public communications, common assault and domestic abuse offences, all against the same woman, on dates between July and September 2025.

He also allegedly committed fraud by false representation in setting up a direct debit with the intention of causing her loss.

Further charges relate to a burglary at a house on Dunowen Pass. Newtownabbey and aggravated vehicle taking of a Vauxhall Astra on July 19.

Police claim he drove the car as an unaccompanied learner driver and without either insurance or displaying plates.

Simpson is also accused of having no driving licence or insurance when he was stopped behind the wheel of a Mercedes A Class vehicle on the M5.

An investigating detective told the court he could connect him to the 16 new charges.

With the defendant still facing separate Crown Court proceedings, no application for bail was made.

Defence solicitor Christopher Logue said: “Mr Simpson vigorously denies these offences, but there is a reality in terms of the outstanding bench warrant.”

District Judge Natasha Fitzsimons remanded Simpson in custody until January 30.