Former Rangers owner Whyte cleared of fraud

Glasgow (AFP) – Former Rangers owner Craig Whyte walked free from court on Tuesday after a jury delivered a not guilty majority verdict on two charges of fraud in the takeover of the Scottish club.

It took the jury just two hours to clear the 46-year-old Scottish businessman — who was charged following an investigation into his purchase of the club in May 2011, after which the Glasgow giants entered administration.

“You have been acquitted and are free to leave the dock,” the trial Judge told Whyte at the court in Glasgow.

He thanked the judge and jury before leaving the courtroom, bringing the curtain down on a six-week trial and a saga that had dragged on for six years.

A small group of people booed as Whyte left the court.

Questioned by reporters as he walked to a car, he said: “I’m just delighted with the outcome.”

The prosecution alleged Whyte pretended to then-owner Sir David Murray funds were “immediately available” on an “unconditional basis” to make all required payments for a controlling and majority stake in the club.

It added Whyte did not have authority over the funds used in the takeover and “induced” the Murray Group to sell, but his lawyer described the accused as “the fall guy” in the case.