On 4 December 2025, the criminal court in Auch sentenced New Zealand back George Tilsley to two years in prison, including one year of custody that may be served under alternative arrangements, for domestic violence committed between 2016 and 2022 against two former partners.

In court, the complainants described serious acts: blows, strangulation, insults and psychological pressure, often heightened under the influence of alcohol. Witnesses confirmed violent behaviour, particularly during frequent bouts of drunkenness.

At the hearing, Tilsley had disputed the accusations of physical violence, referring only to arguments that followed episodes of infidelity. His lawyer had argued for acquittal, in the absence, as he saw it, of medical evidence or direct testimony confirming the violence.

Despite those denials, the court followed the prosecution’s submissions, finding that the repetition, the gravity and the humiliating nature of the acts called for a firm sentence. The judgment also provides for compulsory treatment, an awareness course on domestic violence and compensation for the victims.

Questioned a few days later, the former SA XV centre contested the decision and lodged an appeal, which means he retains the presumption of innocence pending the second-instance judgment.