Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party (SNP), has been charged with embezzlement in connection with the alleged misappropriation of funds from the party. The charge was confirmed by Police Scotland on Tuesday, marking a significant development in the long-running investigation into the SNP's finances.
Details of the Charge
Murrell, who is the husband of former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, was arrested and charged following a police probe into the use of funds that were reportedly donated for a specific campaign but used for other purposes. The exact amount of money involved has not been disclosed, but sources suggest it could be in the tens of thousands of pounds.
Police Scotland stated: "A 59-year-old man has been charged in connection with the embezzlement of funds from the Scottish National Party. A report will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service."
Background of the Investigation
The investigation, known as Operation Branchform, has been ongoing for over two years. It initially focused on the spending of more than £600,000 raised by the party for a potential second independence referendum. The funds were ring-fenced for that purpose, but questions were raised about how they were ultimately spent.
In April 2023, police searched a motorhome parked at the home of Murrell's mother, as well as the SNP's headquarters in Edinburgh. Murrell was arrested at that time but was released without charge pending further investigation.
Political Fallout
The charge has sent shockwaves through the SNP and Scottish politics. Murrell resigned as chief executive in March 2023 after admitting that the party had misled the media about its membership numbers. He had been a key figure in the SNP for decades, overseeing its rise to dominance in Scottish politics.
Nicola Sturgeon, who stepped down as First Minister in March 2023, has not commented on the charge. However, she has previously stated that she is cooperating fully with the investigation.
The SNP's current leadership, including First Minister Humza Yousaf, has emphasized that the party is cooperating with the police and has urged the public not to rush to judgment.
Next Steps
Murrell has been released on police bail pending further inquiries. The Crown Office will now consider the evidence and decide whether to bring formal charges. If convicted, embezzlement carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
The case is expected to be closely watched, as it has already damaged the SNP's reputation and could have further implications for the party's standing ahead of the next general election.
