Police investigate Aberdeen Lib Dem councillor

STV has the news:

Grampian Police is set to investigate allegations of a financial irregularity against an Aberdeen city councillor. They centre on Scott Cassie the planning convenor of the council and the deputy leader of the Liberal Democrat group. STV News has learned that police were called in following discussions between the authority’s legal team and acting chief executive.

The news comes after a week of speculation surrounding Mr Cassie, prompted by a complaint of a “serious nature” being made to the council by a member of Garthdee Commmunity Council. Councillor Cassie represents the Garthdee ward and his wife is chairperson of that community council.

It is understood the allegations concern a four-figure sum. A spokesman for the council has confirmed the matter had been handed to Grampian Police, but would not give the details of the claims being made against the councillor.

It had been previously revealed Mr Cassie would leave his post in August and he was believed to be in line for the convenorship of the Enterprise, Planning and Infrastructure committee. When that move failed to transpire, it drew significant surprise. It is unknown whether that decision was linked to the allegations that have now been made against him.

It is also unclear whether he will remain deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats. Councillor Cassie and Lib Dem group leader John Stewart were unavailable for comment.