Andrew Bell, 44, has been charged with murdering Leanne Park, 44, who was found dead at an address in Parkgate, Darlington, on Wednesday. Police said she was pronounced dead at about 21:15 BST. Bell is due to appear at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court on Monday.
A 27-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail. Crime scene investigators are continuing work, and police expect the cordon to remain in place for some time. Police have urged anyone with information to contact detectives.
