SNP Chief Peter Murrell Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement
Peter Murrell led the Scottish National Party as its chief executive. He pleaded guilty on Monday to stealing over £400,000 from the party.
Murrell is the estranged husband of former Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon. He appeared at the High Court in Edinburgh.
He agreed a deal with prosecutors to reduce the charges. The exact amount stolen was £400,310.65.
He was charged with using the money to fund a costly lifestyle. This included a Jaguar car, a luxury motorhome, a luxury pen and cosmetics.
After his guilty plea the judge sent Murrell to custody. Sentencing is set for June 23.
Klear Note — The Scottish National Party is Scotland's main independence party. Party leaders handle millions in donations and public funds. Embezzlement means stealing money from an organization you work for.
Key Terms 4
- Scottish National Party Political party in Scotland that supports Scottish independence
- embezzlement Stealing money you were trusted to look after
- estranged husband A husband who is separated but not yet divorced
- remanded into custody Sent to prison to wait until the sentencing date