Sam Wood's Lawyer Tells Court Couple Expected to Separate Amid Assault Charges

Reality television personality Sam Wood and his wife, Snezana, are expected to separate, his lawyer informed the Supreme Court on Tuesday as Wood seeks bail. Wood has been in custody since his arrest on October 4, facing accusations of strangling and assaulting Snezana following an alleged argument at a luxury apartment in Noosa, Queensland.

During the bail hearing, Wood's legal representative, Paula Morreau KC, presented allegations of drug use, partying, and escalating confrontations. Morreau argued that Wood could spend more time in remand than a potential prison sentence if convicted. She contended that proposed strict bail conditions, combined with Wood residing interstate, would significantly reduce any risk to the community.

Wood, 46, did not appear in court, either in person or via video link from Wolston Correctional Centre. His marriage has come under scrutiny in light of the proceedings, with the court hearing claims of alcohol and drug use, arguments, and a prior choking incident in 2021. Morreau stated that Snezana had described considerable strain on the relationship in the month preceding the alleged assault. "They are expected to separate," Morreau told the court. "There was alleged drug use, alcohol use and a party lifestyle but it is not suggested Wood suffered from addiction."

Morreau acknowledged that Wood struggled with anger and irritation but asserted that he typically removed himself from confrontations. "While he struggled with anger and irritation he usually leaves and takes time (and is) willing to avoid confrontation," she said. The lawyer also noted that the current allegations were supported by another witness, while those concerning the 2021 incident remained untested.

The court was informed that Snezana Wood had kept photographs from the alleged 2021 incident, during which she claims Wood also choked her. Prosecutors indicated a preference for Wood to remain in Queensland if granted bail, but Morreau argued that Tasmania, due to its island location and family support, would be a more suitable location. If bail is granted, Wood would live with his father, Andrew, who has publicly stated his support for his son.

Wood was arrested after his stepdaughter, Eve Markoski-Wood, 21, contacted police on October 3, alleging that Wood had harmed her mother at their holiday apartment. Police assert that the alleged attack was severe, with Snezana fearing for her life. The argument reportedly occurred the night before the family was scheduled to return to Melbourne from their Noosa holiday. Wood has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm (domestic violence) and strangulation in a domestic setting.

Since Wood's arrest, Snezana has been observed without her wedding ring, and the couple's mansion in Brighton, Victoria, has been listed for sale. The couple have three young daughters together. Eve is Snezana's daughter from a previous relationship.