Ex-Scottish rugby captain Stuart Hogg admits five years of domestic abuse

By Priscilla Jepchumba

Former Scotland rugby international Stuart Hogg, 32, has publicly acknowledged his disturbing behavior towards his estranged wife, Gillian Hogg, over a period of almost five years from 2019 to 2024.

During a recent appearance at Selkirk Sheriff Court he faced a serious charge of domestic abuse, which included a series of disturbing incidents characterized by aggression, intimidation and intimidation.

These incidents reportedly took place in various locations including the picturesque town of Hawick, the bustling city of Glasgow and even in Exeter, far from their home area. Hogg’s admission sheds light on a disturbing chapter in their relationship that has resonated across the rugby community and beyond.

Hogg currently plays for Montpellier in France and will remain abroad during his divorce proceedings. His misconduct, which involved verbal aggression and excessive messaging, worsened over time, prompting Gillian to seek help from a domestic violence service in early 2023.

In one incident, Hogg sent her more than 200 text messages within a few hours, triggering a panic attack. The text describes Mr Hogg’s disturbing behavior towards his wife, Mrs Hogg, including his use of a tracking app to monitor her movements upon their return to the Scottish borders in 2023.

His constant harassment and questions about her whereabouts left her feeling scared and trapped. In February 2024, Hogg breached a law order by raiding their home, prompting police intervention. He was detained and later given a bail order banning contact with his wife.

In August 2024, he attempted to communicate with her on a video call, once again violating the order. Angela Gray KC, defending Hogg, acknowledged that while some events may not have met prosecutorial standards, they were indeed criminal under the Domestic Abuse Act 2018.

Hogg claimed he had no intention of being abusive, despite acknowledging his inappropriate behaviour.

“The incidents alone were unlikely to reach the threshold required for prosecution in the criminal courts. Mr Hogg accepts that these incidents in themselves fall short of what is expected of a spouse. Hogg accepts that his conduct, viewed within that framework (of the Domestic Abuse Act 2018), was criminal in nature,” said Angela Gray KC, defending Hogg.

Sheriff Peter Paterson has adjourned Stuart Hogg’s sentencing until December 5, 2024.