Magistrate Anne Thacker raised concerns about Ioane’s mental health following his statements in court, remarks that were later backed up by his brother Ioane Sagaga, who attended court to offer his support.
Sagaga said he has asked his brother to be checked for mental health concerns, especially for head knocks sustained over his career.
Digby Ioane played for the Crusaders in 2017. Photo / Photosport
According to reports, the court heard Ioane had some minor criminal history and had been in hospital until the day prior for undisclosed reasons.
Thacker said the evidence against Ioane appeared to be far too serious to take the risk in releasing him.
“You became obsessed with this person and the evidence from the complainant is that you’ve been threatening to kill him over and over and over again,” she said.
“Until some better information about you is discovered, or you are on medication, you’re an unacceptable risk of reoffending, and it’s unsafe for the alleged victim.
“So you’ll have to stay in custody, but get on some medication as soon as you can, that might make a difference.”
Ioane’s case was adjourned to next month.
He enjoyed a successful career on the field, where he spent most of it playing Super Rugby with the Western Force and Queensland Reds. He also had a brief stint with the Crusaders in 2017, and played in France and Japan.
Ioane played 35 tests for the Wallabies and was part of the squad which finished third at the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand.
Born in Wellington, Ioane moved to Melbourne at a young age and grew up in Australia.