Ex-SNP council leader Jordan Linden to appeal conviction for sexually assaulting men and boys

A former SNP council leader who was jailed last week for sexually assaulting men and boys is to appeal his conviction.

Jordan Linden resigned as the leader of North Lanarkshire Council in July 2022 after reports of alleged sexual harassment emerged, leading to the collapse of the SNP administration.

Last week, the 30-year-old was sentenced to 18 months behind bars after being found guilty of ten offences following a trial at Falkirk Sheriff Court in March.

Linden was found guilty of five sexual assaults, three counts of engaging in a course of conduct causing fear or alarm and of charges involving sexual communication.

The offences spanned the period 2011 to 2021.

He was also put on the sex offenders register.

On Monday, it emerged Linden had instructed his lawyers to appeal his conviction and sentence.

The Crown confirmed that an application has been made.