A former Scottish National Party (SNP) council leader has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after being convicted of multiple sexual offences against boys and young men. Jordan Linden, 30, was sentenced at Falkirk Sheriff Court following his conviction on 10 charges, including sexual assault, stalking, and inappropriate sexual communication, after a trial earlier this year. Angry scenes unfolded outside the courthouse as Linden arrived for sentencing, with videos circulating online showing a crowd shouting at him. He declined to respond to media inquiries.
Crimes over a decade
The court heard that the offences occurred over a 10-year period between 2011 and 2021, with victims as young as 14. Prosecutors stated that Linden targeted vulnerable teenagers and young men, engaging in repeated inappropriate behaviour, including unwanted sexual contact and explicit communication. He was convicted of five counts of sexual assault, along with charges of stalking and coercing individuals into viewing sexual images.
Court rejects leniency plea
Defence lawyer David Moggach KC argued for a non-custodial sentence, citing Linden's difficult teenage years, experiences of bullying, and a later autism diagnosis. However, Sheriff Christopher Shead ruled that the severity of the offences warranted imprisonment, stating that custody was 'the only appropriate disposal'. Linden was also placed on the sex offenders' register.
Political fallout
Linden stepped down as leader of North Lanarkshire Council in 2022 after allegations emerged, and later resigned from both the council and the SNP. The case has sparked wider political controversy, with questions raised about how earlier complaints were handled within party and youth organisations. Some witnesses claimed that concerns were previously downplayed or ignored.
The SNP welcomed the verdict and has since ordered a review of its complaints procedures. The Scottish Youth Parliament said it recognised the seriousness of the case and had cooperated fully with investigations. Authorities said the conviction followed a detailed probe, expressing hope that the sentencing brings some measure of justice to the victims.
