Police Scotland's chief constable has commended officers involved in the Operation Branchform investigation into SNP finances, stating they amassed 'compelling evidence' against Nicola Sturgeon's former husband, Peter Murrell. Chief Constable Jo Farrell acknowledged that the investigators operated under intense scrutiny in a case of significant public interest.
Murrell's Guilty Plea
Murrell, 61, admitted to embezzling more than £400,000 from the Scottish National Party over a 12-year period during his tenure as chief executive. The funds were diverted from the party to his personal account to finance luxuries.
Praise for Investigation Team
Speaking at a Scottish Police Authority meeting on Thursday, Ms Farrell expressed gratitude to Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Houston, who led the complex Branchform inquiry, along with other senior officers and Police Scotland's financial crime unit. She highlighted their methodical and professional approach amid significant public commentary.
'Their efforts led to this week's guilty plea by Peter Murrell, who abused his position to divert SNP funds to his own account to fund luxuries,' Ms Farrell stated. 'I would pay tribute to the integrity and skill of Stuart and the investigation team, who went about their work methodically and professionally in the midst of significant commentary.'
