Fitness star arrested on Sunshine Coast

Sam Wood, a forty six year old wellness influencer from Melbourne, was arrested at Noosa on Sunday and charged with two domestic violence offences: assault occasioning bodily harm and strangulation in a domestic setting.

Wife told police she thought she would die

Snezana Wood told police her husband choked her until there was a cessation of breath, she banged her head on the floor, and she could not breathe. She thought she was going to die.

“She thought she was going to die.”

Similar incident three years earlier

Police attended Sam Wood's Victorian home about three years ago over a similar choking allegation. Snezana Wood did not make a complaint then out of fear of retribution from her husband.

Court denies bail, cites escalating behaviour

Acting magistrate Janelle Boegheim said the strength of evidence against Sam Wood was relatively strong and that if proven, the charges would likely attract a term in prison. He will be held in custody indefinitely awaiting trial.

Defence cites severe depression

Sam Wood's lawyer Matthew Cuskelly sought bail and said his client denied the allegations. A psychologist's report described Sam Wood as suffering from severe depression and said he should be given the opportunity to engage with mental health professionals.

Fitness company stands him down

Sam Wood was stood down by his own fitness empire, twenty eight by Sam Wood, on Monday. The group's acting chief executive Mark Watkin said they have zero tolerance for domestic violence and Sam is on indefinite leave from his duties.

Next court date set for November

Sam Wood is due to face court again on November twenty third. Snezana Wood is supportive of the charges proceeding, and Sam Wood's lawyer has indicated he will fight the charges.