College Launches Formal Investigation Into Councillor's Controversial Remarks
New College Lanarkshire has initiated a formal probe into two separate complaints lodged against councillor Kirsten Larson, following her controversial defense of convicted sex offender Jordan Linden. The modern studies lecturer, who also serves as an SNP councillor, was recorded stating during an internal party meeting that Linden's only wrongdoing was "being a young person."
Victim's Mother Leads Outcry Over 'Serious Lapse in Judgment'
The mother of one of Linden's victims has filed a formal complaint with college authorities, arguing that Larson's position working with young people has become untenable. "Ms Larson's attitude is exactly why it took so long for Jordan Linden to be held to account for his disgusting crimes against my son, and seven other young men and boys," she stated emphatically. "It shows a serious lapse in judgment by someone who is not only a representative of her community on the council, but responsible for teaching young people."
The concerned parent added with palpable anger: "She shouldn't be anywhere near young people when this is the attitude. What if a student had a similar issue, like my son did with Jordan Linden? Would she claim they were only being a 'young person' too and there was no wrongdoing?"
Secret Recording Reveals Disturbing Comments
Larson's remarks were captured during a secret recording made by concerned SNP councillors at an internal group meeting in 2022, following Linden's resignation as North Lanarkshire Council leader. At the time, Larson held responsibility for education within the council. She told colleagues: "In my opinion, based on the information I have, the only thing Jordan Linden is guilty of is being a young person."
This statement has sparked outrage among victims' families and opposition politicians alike. The Mail on Sunday has confirmed that a student has also submitted a formal complaint, prompting college bosses to launch a comprehensive investigation into Larson's fitness to work with young people.
Political Fallout and Calls for Suspension
Opposition politicians have demanded immediate action from First Minister John Swinney, calling for Larson's suspension from the SNP. Meghan Gallacher of the Scottish Conservatives declared: "This crass comment is an insult to Jordan Linden's victims, so it's hardly surprising they have sparked outrage. John Swinney took far too long before finally suspending Tracy Carragher from the SNP. He must now take similar action against Kirsten Larson, whose position is equally untenable."
Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie added her condemnation: "Jordan Linden is a convicted sex offender. Kirsten Larson's remarks diminishing his actions were not only completely misguided, but offensive to Linden's victims."
Background of the Linden Case
Jordan Linden, the former SNP council leader, has been convicted of ten separate sex crimes. He initially resigned in 2022 after newspaper reports revealed he had sexually assaulted an SNP member at a party in Dundee. Linden permanently left the council in 2023 when new allegations emerged, prompting fellow councillor Cameron McManus to file a police complaint alleging sexual assault during an SNP youth trip to Barcelona.
During the same 2022 meeting where Larson made her comments, Tracy Carragher—Linden's deputy—was heard urging fellow councillors to consider the predator's "mental health." Carragher, who served as a defense witness during Linden's trial, has since been dismissed as an SNP Holyrood candidate and suspended from the party over her handling of the scandal.
College Maintains Official Silence
A spokesman for New College Lanarkshire stated: "All public bodies in Scotland must comply with the Scottish Public Service Ombudsman complaints handling procedures. We are therefore unable to comment further." Both the SNP and Kirsten Larson have declined to respond to repeated requests for comment regarding the ongoing investigation and the serious allegations against her.
The mother of Linden's victim concluded with a heartfelt plea: "I hope that Ms Larson faces the full disciplinary process and also realises the effect her comments have had on victims of sexual abuse and family members who have to live with trauma for the rest of their lives."
