Stuart Hogg: Former Scotland rugby captain pleads guilty to domestic abuse
Last updated 4th Nov 2024
Former Scotland rugby captain Stuart Hogg has been convicted of a five year campaign of abuse against his estranged wife Gillian Hogg.
The 32-year-old, who hails from Hawick, pled guilty to an amended charge under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act, shortly before his case was due to go to trial at Selkirk Sheriff Court today (Monday).
Sentence has been deferred until next month for background reports.
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The court heard Hogg's drinking left the mother of his children scared and wishing "for it to be morning as soon as possible" so he would sober up.
The professional rugby player, who made 100 appearances for his country before his retirement from the international stage last year, admitted sending up to 200 text messages in a few hours following the breakup of his marriage in 2023 - despite being asked to leave her alone; and using phone apps to track his former partner's location.
On one occasion, the court heard, messages Hogg sent - which were said to be "unpleasant in tone" - led to her having a panic attack.
The court heard Hogg's behaviour became "problematic" while playing for Glasgow Warriors, and "deteriorated further" when he moved south to Exeter.
Drew Long, prosecuting, said he would regularly go out drinking with colleagues and come home, shouting and swearing at his ex-wife and accusing her of "not being fun", for choosing to stay upstairs with their children.
Hogg, now playing in France with Montpellier, admitted engaging in a course of behaviour that was abusive of his partner, or ex partner, at addresses in the Borders, England and elsewhere, between April the 1st, 2019 and August the 17th, 2024.
He initially faced further charges but his not guilty pleas to them were accepted by the prosecutor.
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In his defence, KC Angela Gray said her client's intention was never to be abusive, but accepts his behaviour fell short of what was expected of him as a husband.
Hogg, who was supported in court by his mum and dad, is due to return for sentencing at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on December the 5th.
His suitability for the Caledonian men's programme - a behaviour programme for men convicted of domestic abuse offences - is to be assessed meantime.
Sheriff Peter Paterson said he would also make a decision on whether to impose a non-harassment order on Hogg on that date.
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