SNP Chief Jailed Over Five Years for Embezzlement
Peter Murrell has been jailed for five years and three months. He was the chief executive of the Scottish National Party.
He is also the estranged husband of former Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon. Murrell admitted to stealing over £400,000 from the party.
He did this over 12 years while running the SNP. He spent the money on a luxury motorhome and a Jaguar SUV.
He also bought Montblanc pens and luxury watches. He even bought Lalique salt and pepper grinders and 2kg of coffee granules.
The sentence starts from 25 May 2026 when he first went to prison. His lawyer said he will pay back the full amount.
He has over £613,000 in pension accounts to cover this. The judge said the sentence should warn other senior leaders in large groups.
Klear Note — The Scottish National Party is Scotland's main political party. Party leaders handle large amounts of member donations and funds.
Key Terms 5
- Scottish National Party (SNP) Scotland's main political party that supports Scottish independence
- embezzlement Stealing money you were trusted to manage for someone else
- Montblanc A luxury brand known for expensive pens and accessories
- Lalique A French brand that makes high-end glass and crystal items
- remanded in custody Held in prison while waiting for a court decision