Significant developments in long running police probe into SNP finances
Last updated 20th Mar 2025
Former Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon has been cleared in a police investigation into the SNP's finances.
Ms Sturgeon and former party treasurer Colin Beattie were both arrested in 2023 but released pending further investigation in the probe - named Operation Branchform by Police Scotland.
Mr Beattie was also cleared by police, who announced the move in a statement on Thursday.
The news comes after Ms Sturgeon's estranged husband and former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell appeared in court charged with embezzlement.
In a statement, Police Scotland said: "Following direction from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, criminal enquiries into two people arrested as part of the investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party have now concluded.
"The 73-year-old man arrested on 18 April, 2023, and the 54-year-old woman arrested on 11 June, 2023, have not been charged and are no longer under investigation."
A Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) spokesperson said regarding Murrell's court appearance: "Professional prosecutors from COPFS and independent counsel are dealing with this case without involving the Lord Advocate or Solicitor General. All Scotland's prosecutors operate independently of political influence.
"These matters are active under the Contempt of Court Act 1981. The provisions of this Act protect the integrity of proceedings, preserve access to justice for victims, and secure the rights of people accused of crime.
"Anyone publishing items about active cases is advised to exercise caution as material must not be commentary or analysis of evidence, witnesses or accused. Contempt of court carries penalties of up to two years in prison and/or an unlimited fine."
Addressing the investigation into Ms Sturgeon and Mr Beattie, the spokesperson added: "A request from Police Scotland for advice and guidance in an investigation into a 73-year-old man and a 54-year-old woman has been responded to.
"The request was handled as part of a large-scale wider inquiry and without delay on the part of the prosecution service who recognise its significance.
"Where allegations are made against people or institutions in which the public have placed trust, it is the responsibility of the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to determine if there is evidence that criminal conduct has occurred.
"We understand public curiosity about this investigation. However, the Crown does not publicly share details of confidential inquiries where there are no proceedings in court. This protects the rights of the individuals concerned who are entitled to a presumption of innocence."
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