Girlfriend attacked me, claims kidnap accused

Jun 26 2008 by Chloe Griffiths, Liverpool Daily Post

A FRENCH market trader accused of drugging and kidnapping his musician girlfriend claimed she attacked him after taking cocaine.

Frederic Poullain is alleged to have beaten his partner, singer and businesswoman Natalie Reeves, before holding a knife to her neck and threatening to kill her.

Former front-woman of Liverpool band Chione, Ms Reeves, who now owns shipping and export company Chione Investments, said Poullain ordered her to down paracetamol before forcing her at knifepoint into his van in an attempt to kidnap her to his native France.

But yesterday, a jury at Liverpool Crown Court heard Poullain, 30, told police it was Ms Reeves who had “jumped” at him after taking too many drugs.

Poullain is alleged to have flown into a jealous rage while partying at Ms Reeves’s flat in Waterloo House, Liverpool, but yesterday the Frenchman claimed it was his girlfriend who became aggressive after taking cocaine.

Poullain, formerly of Croxteth Road, claimed her injuries were caused as he pushed her away.

Poullain denies kidnapping, administering a poisonous substance with intent, and two charges of assault.

The case continues.