Former HIV Scotland CEO Faces Fraud Trial Next Year

 

Former HIV Scotland CEO Faces Fraud Trial Next Year

Former HIV Scotland CEO Nathan Sparling is set to stand trial next year, facing charges of fraud and embezzlement. Sparling, who resigned from his position as chief executive of HIV Scotland in December 2020, entered a plea of not guilty at Edinburgh Sheriff Court.

The allegations stem from a fraud investigation initiated by Police Scotland in February 2021 following a formal complaint. The investigation centers around activities at the York Place premises in Edinburgh, which served as HIV Scotland's headquarters at the time.

HIV Scotland, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with HIV for three decades, closed its doors earlier this year. The closure marked the end of a journey during which the charity received approximately £400,000 in annual funding, including support from the Scottish Government.

Sparling assumed the role of CEO at HIV Scotland in 2018 but departed two years later, prior to the revelation of the fraud allegations. Notably, he had previously worked as an aide to SNP MSP Angus Robertson during Robertson's tenure as the party's Westminster leader.

In addition to his role within the charity sector, Sparling has an unconventional side, having performed comedy gigs throughout Scotland as the drag queen persona, Nancy Clench.

The trial is scheduled for May next year, as the legal process unfolds, shedding light on the allegations against the former HIV Scotland CEO.