Former Scotland rugby captain Stuart Hogg spent a night in police cells after sending his estranged wife ‘unpleasant’ text messages, in breach of a court order prohibiting contact. The 32-year-old admitted the breach during an appearance at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday.
Hogg had been charged with breaching a court order that was put in place to prevent him from contacting his wife, Gillian Hogg. Despite this, he repeatedly contacted her between June 26 and June 30.
Sheriff Kevin McCarron granted Hogg bail so he could be the best man at his older brother Graham’s wedding this weekend. However, Sheriff McCarron warned Hogg that it was ‘highly unlikely’ he would be granted bail again if there was any repeat of his behaviour.
Stuart Hogg, who spent the night in police cells, admitted breaching the bail condition set at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on May 7. Defence lawyer Mat Patrick explained that Mrs. Hogg initially contacted Hogg to discuss financial issues. Patrick stated, “What thereafter happens is that she has posted a video on social media which has struck a chord with Mr. Hogg and, after consuming alcohol and feeling emotional, he has texted her.” Patrick acknowledged the messages were ‘unpleasant’ and inappropriate.
Prosecutor India McLean confirmed the messages were not threatening but described them as abusive. Hogg was granted bail to his brother’s home address in Hawick, and the case was continued until July 15 for an intermediate trial diet at Jedburgh Sheriff Court.
Stuart Hogg has previously pleaded not guilty to charges of stalking and domestic abuse against Mrs Hogg. A trial date is set for July 30. The stalking charge alleges that Hogg engaged in conduct causing fear and alarm between January 2017 and March 2019. The domestic abuse charge includes similar conduct and additional allegations of alarming messages and threats of self-harm from April 2019 to March 2024.
Hogg retired from rugby union before last year’s World Cup, having amassed over 100 senior caps and participating in three British and Irish Lions tours. He is Scotland’s all-time leading try scorer and has won titles with Glasgow Warriors and Exeter Chiefs. In the 2024 New Year Honours List, Hogg was awarded an MBE for services to rugby union.
In November, it was revealed that Hogg had been dating jockey-turned-TV presenter Leonna Mayor. The couple recently enjoyed a holiday in Turkey.
Hogg revealed earlier this year that he had spent time in rehab, thanking those who supported him during ‘the darkest of times.
Defence solicitor Mat Patrick disclosed that Hogg had secured a two-year playing contract with French side Montpellier, providing a source of income as he comes out of retirement, earning a reported £350,000 per year.
Hogg’s case continues to unfold, with the court awaiting a psychiatric report before his next appearance on July 15.
