Sentence of Mr John Holden

Political groupings on the Council have united in condemning Mr Holden's fraudulent behaviour set out in evidence during a trial at Inverness Sheriff Court.
 
Council Convener Sandy Park on behalf of the Independents said: "I understand that disqualification from holding office is automatic when the sentence is three months imprisonment or greater.  The sentence imposed by Sheriff Abercrombie reflects the gravity of the offences committed by Mr Holden, which included Council Tax Benefit fraud."

Council Leader Michael Foxley said: "Mr Holden has been found guilty of serious charges of fraud. The Council’s Administration is united in condemning his actions, which have fallen well short of the standards expected of a councillor." 

Councillor Jimmy Gray, Leader of the Labour Group on the Council, said Mr Holden had been suspended from the Council's Labour Group following his charges and now that he has been sentenced an automatic expulsion from the party will follow.
 
Councillor Drew Hendry, Leader of the Opposition, said: "The public should be assured that the Council takes a grave view of any councillor being found guilty of this kind of offence."