A former leader of the SNP council, Jordan Linden, has been sentenced to 18 months in jail for multiple sex offenses against teenagers and young men. Linden, who resigned from his position in July 2022 amid allegations of sexual harassment, was convicted of 10 offenses, including sexual assaults, sexual communication, and engaging in conduct causing fear or alarm.
The crimes occurred between 2011 and 2021 in North Lanarkshire, Scotland, and other locations. Linden, who left the SNP in 2024, was found guilty after a trial at Falkirk Sheriff Court. The 30-year-old sent unwanted communications to seven teenagers, with the youngest being 14 years old, including inappropriate images.
In addition to the sexual assaults, Linden was accused of assaulting two victims at a post-Pride parade party in Dundee. Despite denying any wrongdoing, Linden was charged in February 2024. During the trial, it was revealed that Linden had behaved inappropriately towards individuals, including sending explicit images and making unwanted advances.
Sheriff Christopher Shead presiding over the case stated that considering the nature of the offenses, a custodial sentence was the appropriate course of action. Following the conviction, First Minister John Swinney ordered a review of the SNP’s handling of complaints against Linden.
Detective Chief Inspector Diane Barr, the lead investigator, emphasized that Linden had abused his position of trust and thanked the victims for coming forward. The investigation involved speaking with numerous individuals who had interacted with Linden, many of whom viewed him as a mentor.