Stuart Hogg, former Scotland rugby union captain and an MBE recipient for services to sport, is set to be sentenced at Selkirk Sheriff Court on Thursday after pleading guilty to domestic abuse against his estranged wife, Gillian Hogg.
Domestic Abuse Charges
Hogg admitted to:
- Shouting and swearing at Mrs. Hogg.
- Tracking her movements using an app.
- Sending alarming and distressing messages, including over 200 texts in a few hours on one occasion.
The abuse spanned 2019 to 2024 and occurred in locations including Hawick in the Scottish Borders.
Previous Sentences for Related Offenses
- In June 2024, Hogg breached bail conditions by sending 28 texts in one night to Mrs. Hogg.
- He was sentenced in December 2024 to a five-year non-harassment order and fined £600, with a £40 victim surcharge.
Behavior Patterns and Impact
- Hogg’s behavior reportedly deteriorated after moving to Exeter with his wife and three young children in 2019. He frequently went on drinking binges, accused Mrs. Hogg of “not being fun,” and shouted at her for not participating.
- By 2023, Mrs. Hogg sought support from a domestic abuse service and decided to leave.
- The prosecutor, Drew Long, described Hogg’s escalating behavior, including tracking her movements and excessive texting, which led to Mrs. Hogg experiencing a panic attack in September 2023.
Sentencing Delay and Complications
Sheriff Peter Paterson postponed Hogg’s sentencing last month to confirm whether a community order with remote supervision could be enforced, given that Hogg now lives abroad.
Hogg’s Career and Personal Life
- Hogg retired from professional rugby in July 2023 but later signed a two-year contract with Montpellier, a French club.
- He was made an MBE in the 2023 New Year Honours for his contributions to rugby.
- The 32-year-old is in the process of a divorce and remains under a five-year ban from contacting or approaching Mrs. Hogg.
Hogg’s sentencing will bring closure to a high-profile case that has overshadowed his rugby achievements and sparked discussions about accountability and domestic abuse within sports and public life.
