NICOLA Sturgeon’s supporters have rallied behind her after the former SNP leader was cleared by police.
Her estranged husband Peter Murrell appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Thursday, charged with embezzlement. He made no plea and was bailed.
The same day, the police announced that Sturgeon was no longer under investigation – almost two years after she was arrested as part of Operation Branchform.
Her backers have reacted to the announcement with messages of support.
Broadcaster and National columnist Lesley Riddoch said: “What a ridiculous and expensive palaver this ‘investigation’ has been.
“Now she’s cleared on these charges, Nicola Sturgeon’s future has suddenly got a lot brighter.”
Former SNP MP Hannah Bardell added: “[The] woman deserves a break and frankly some peace.
“She’s done a shift and been through hell. All strength and love to you [Sturgeon].”
Progress in the case will come as a relief to many within the SNP, who are concerned with how long the investigation has taken.
Operation Branchform, which has cost the taxpayer more than £2.3 million between the police and prosecutors since 2021, is Police Scotland’s investigation into £600,000 raised by the SNP for an independence campaign.
Also cleared on Thursday was ex-SNP treasurer Colin Beattie.
