Police ScotlandA man is to stand trial charged with the murder of his partner.
Daniel Sutherland, 35, allegedly killed Naomi MacIvor at a property on Morrison Court, Dornoch in the Highlands in February this year.
Prosecutors claim the 46-year-old was initially pushed and seized by the body.
The murder charge further states Naomi was hit against a wall as well as struck on the head by means unknown.
Sutherland faces a separate accusation of earlier engaging in a course of abusive behaviour towards the woman for a number of weeks up until her death.
This includes allegations that he was aggressive towards her and also assaulted his partner, fracturing her wrist.
He was also charged with being threatening and abusive towards two men and police officers.
The case called for a hearing at the High Court in Glasgow.
Sutherland’s legal team pleaded not guilty on his behalf.
A trial was set and it is scheduled to begin in September 2027.
Naomi’s relatives paid tribute to her following her death.
In a statement, the family said: “Naomi was a loving mother, auntie, daughter and granddaughter. She was a friend to everyone.
“We will never get over losing her. She was taken far too early for such a bright spirit.
“We shall miss her for forever and love her eternally.”
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