Independent Review of SNP Complaints Process Ordered
First Minister John Swinney has commissioned an independent review of the Scottish National Party's complaints procedures following the conviction of a former council leader for sexual assaults against young men.
Jordan Linden, aged 30, was found guilty on Thursday of five counts of sexual assault and sending unwanted sexual communications to teenagers, including victims as young as 14.
During Linden's trial, some witnesses alleged that complaints made against the former SNP leader of North Lanarkshire Council were minimized or disregarded by the party.
The SNP stated that the new review aims to "ensure people are protected and our complaints procedures are as robust as they can be."
A party spokesperson added:
"We have undertaken a comprehensive review of our complaints procedures since 2016, but in light of this case, John Swinney has instructed that an independent review of these procedures be conducted.
The SNP welcomes the verdict against Mr Linden and commends the bravery of the individuals who came forward."
Details of Offences and Trial Testimonies
Linden's offences spanned a decade, occurring between 2011 and 2021.
At Falkirk Sheriff Court, victims recounted incidents of assault and unwanted advances perpetrated by Linden.
Additional offences included sending explicit photographs of himself in a bath and images of his genitalia.
One incident reportedly took place in 2019 following a Dundee Pride parade associated with Out For Independence, the SNP's LGBT wing.
The court also heard testimony from a party official who stated that Linden had confined him in a bathroom and attempted to coerce him into urinating while being observed.
Another witness described an event during a trip to Barcelona with Young Scots for Independence, the SNP's youth wing, where Linden climbed into his bed at a hostel, caressed him, and attempted to kiss him.
Political Career and Resignation
Linden was elected as an SNP councillor the year after some of the offences began and eventually became leader of North Lanarkshire Council in 2022.
He resigned from his leadership position a few weeks later after the allegations surfaced.
Reactions from SNP Leadership
Speaking to BBC Scotland News, SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn expressed anger on behalf of the victims.
Many of the offences occurred while Linden, originally from Bellshill in Lanarkshire, was chair of the Scottish Youth Parliament.
"I'm absolutely horrified that this individual - what I would regard as a predator - managed to get into such a senior position within the Scottish Youth Parliament and become leader of a hugely important local authority.
I'm angry on behalf of the victims that they had to deal with his behaviour.
The main thing for us collectively in politics is to make sure such people don't get into positions of influence."
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Linden was arrested by specialist officers from Police Scotland in February 2024.
He denied all charges, claiming that the alleged incidents either did not occur or were consensual.
Detective Chief Inspector Diane Barr stated that investigators had spoken with numerous individuals who "regarded Linden as being in a position of trust."
"He abused this position to befriend young males who were seeking his support and the opportunity to learn from his work.
His conduct toward them was far from professional. I'd like to thank the victims who came forward.
Their testimony and support ensured that we were able to bring Linden before the courts."
Linden initially faced 15 charges but was acquitted of six charges related to stalking and sexual assault.
On Thursday, he was placed on the sex offenders register and subsequently released on bail.
Statements from Scottish Youth Parliament
The Scottish Youth Parliament condemned Linden's actions as "reprehensible and diametrically opposed" to its values.
