Former SNP Chief Peter Murrell Charged with Embezzlement in Party Finances Probe

Murrell appeared in court, made no plea or declaration, and was released on bail as the Operation Branchform investigation continues.

Peter Murrell, former SNP chief executive, has been charged with embezzlement as part of Police Scotland's Operation Branchform investigation into party finances.
Murrell appeared at a private petition hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, where he made no plea or declaration and was released on bail pending further examination.
The investigation has also implicated other senior SNP figures, including Nicola Sturgeon and Colin Beattie, both of whom were previously arrested but released without charge.
The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service emphasized the independence of prosecutors in handling the case and warned against potential contempt of court violations.
Murrell and former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, who announced their separation earlier this year, remain central figures in the high-profile inquiry.