The painstaking work to uncover Peter Murrell's crimes
Summary
Peter Murrell, a former leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), has admitted to misusing over £400,000 of party money for personal use over more than 12 years. Police uncovered the fraud after a detailed investigation, which included seizing items bought with the stolen funds, such as a luxury motorhome and a car. Murrell faces a likely prison sentence for embezzlement.Key Facts
- Police searched Murrell and Nicola Sturgeon’s home in April 2023, setting up a large police tent to protect the investigation from media attention.
- Murrell used SNP funds, including credit cards and bank accounts, to buy personal items from over 90 retailers.
- The investigation began after questions arose about £670,000 raised for a Scottish independence campaign.
- Police seized a £124,550 luxury motorhome and a Jaguar I-Pace purchased with party money.
- Murrell covered his crimes by making false entries in the SNP’s financial accounts.
- The police investigation was named Operation Branchform and was very sensitive politically.
- Murrell faces a long prison sentence despite his guilty plea.
- The investigation took nearly two years and involved detectives and forensic accountants.
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