Larbert councillor accused of shoplifting resigns from SNP

Councillor Carleschi has resigned from the SNP over the theft charge

It is understood Steven Carleschi, the SNP member for the Carse, Kinnaird and Tryst Ward, was detained by security staff at the Asda store in Hallam Road, Stenhousemuir, at around 9pm last Thursday and police were called.

The 30-year-old dad-of-three, who lives in the  village, was later questioned by officers and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

Following the incident, Mr Carleschi has had his offer to resign from the party accepted by Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, leader of the SNP Group at the Municipal Buildings.

In a statement issued yesterday (Wednesday) to The Falkirk Herald, he said: “I have voluntarily withdrawn from the SNP while this matter is being considered by the Procurator Fiscal but will continue holding surgeries for my constituents.”

Councillor Meiklejohn said: I have accepted his resignation pending the completion of the legal process that prevents me saying anything more at this stage.”