Stuart Hogg allowed to walk free and will be best man at brother’s wedding this weekend as judge warns of ‘last chance’
FORMER Scotland rugby captain was allowed to walk free and will be the best man at his brother’s wedding this weekend.
The 32-year-old dodged jail today after breaching his bail conditions by contacting his estranged wife.
Rugby ace Hogg was arrested on Tuesday night over the bail offence.
He appeared in the dock at Jedburgh Sheriff Court, where he pled guilty.
The lawyer representing Hogg, Mat Patrick, said his client sent “non-threatening” messages after his ex, Gillian Hogg, posted a video that “struck a chord” with the former rugby star.
He said Hogg then consumed alcohol before sending the “unpleasant” message last month.
He told Sheriff Kevin McCarron: “The contact appears to have been initiated by the complainer who contacted him to discuss financial matters.
“She then posted a video online which struck a chord with Mr Hogg.
“He then consumed alcohol and contacted her with a non-threatening message.
“There is a lot at stake for him after he secured a job in France and he is due to move there later this month.”
The court heard how Hogg will also be the best man at his brother’s wedding this weekend.
He was spared jail for the bail breach but was given a stern final warning by Sheriff McCarron.
Hogg was told that his lack of previous offences saw him dodge jail but if he broke his bail again then it would be “highly unlikely” for him to maintain his liberty.
Sheriff McCarron told him: “It is only the fact that you have no previous that will allow me to liberate you.
“I will set additional conditions for you not to contact Gillian Hogg. No contact means no contact.
“Just to be clear if there is any repeat of this it is highly unlikely you will be granted your liberty.”
Hogg was first arrested in February at his estranged wife’s home for allegedly engaging in a course of conduct which caused fear and alarm.
He then appeared in the dock for a brief hearing at Jedburgh Sheriff Court back in May where he denied abusing and stalking his wife Gillian.
Hogg was also accused of monitoring his wife’s communications and controlling her family life for seven years.
He is also charged under section one of the Domestic Abuse Scotland Act which alleges he engaged in a course of behaviour which was “abusive” to his wife Gillian.
Hogg will return to court later this month to be sentenced.