Scotland's Former First Minister Alex Salmond Charged With Two Counts Of Attempted Rape And Multiple Sexual Assaults

Alex Salmond leaves Edinburgh Sheriff Court with his legal team. Photo Credit: AAP

Former first minister of Scotland Alex Salmond appeared in court on Thursday for charges of attempted rape and multiple sexual assaults.

Police in Scotland had been investigating Salmond following an internal inquiry by the Scottish government last year into allegations of sexual misconduct against him. Salmond strenuously denies those claims.

Addressing reporters outside Edinburgh Sheriff Court after a brief hearing, Salmond, ex-leader of the Scottish National Party, insisted he was “innocent of any criminality whatsoever.”

Salmond said he had “great faith” in the judicial system in Scotland and would defend himself “to the utmost” in court.

Prosecutors listed 14 charges in total against Salmond in a statement released after the initial private court appearance.

They comprise two counts of attempted rape, nine counts of sexual assault, two counts of indecent assault and one count of breaching the peace.

According to details provided by the Crown Office, Salmond did not enter a plea and was released on bail.

The charge sheet does not indicate how many alleged victims are involved.

Salmond declined to answer any questions outside the court, saying he could fall foul of reporting restrictions if he did.

Earlier this month, he won a procedural case against the Scottish government over its handling of an investigation into harassment allegations brought by two women, according to the UK’s Press Association news agency.

Salmond stood down as first minister and SNP leader following defeat in the November 2014 referendum on Scottish independence, which he had long championed. He was replaced by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.





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