Former Scotland rugby international Tim Visser is to stand trial accused of rape and a series of alleged offences against a woman spanning 14 years. The 39-year-old, who won 33 caps for Scotland, faces four charges relating to alleged incidents in Edinburgh and elsewhere between 2010 and 2024.
Details of the allegations
Two of the charges allege that Visser raped the woman on various occasions, including instances in which it is alleged he had sex with her after consent had been withdrawn. A separate charge alleges that the former Edinburgh winger, who also played in England with Newcastle and Harlequins, repeatedly behaved in a threatening and abusive manner towards the woman.
The allegations include claims that he "took intimate images" of her without her consent, sent unwanted calls and text messages, demanded to know her whereabouts and sought to control her appearance, finances, clothing and diet. Prosecutors also allege that Visser isolated the woman from family and friends and was physically violent towards her.
Additional charges and court proceedings
A fourth charge alleges a course of abusive behaviour involving 26 separate claims, including allegations relating to threatening behaviour and sexual matters. These include an allegation that he sent an intimate image of the woman to another person.
The indictment also states that prosecutors may seek to present evidence concerning other alleged incidents dating back to 2004. These matters are not formal charges at this stage and include allegations relating to physical and sexual incidents, threats and controlling behaviour.
At a hearing at the High Court in Glasgow, defence counsel Ian Duguid entered a plea of not guilty to the indictment. A trial has been scheduled for 12 January 2028 in Edinburgh.
Background and next steps
Visser, who is from Milton Bridge in Midlothian, was born in the Netherlands but opted to represent Scotland at international level. He played on the wing for Scotland between 2012 and 2017, before retiring from professional rugby in 2019.
The allegations have not been proven. Visser has pleaded not guilty.
