Former DUP Leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson Faces Rape, Indecent Assault Charges at Newry Crown Court

The prosecution’s case against former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, 63, began today at Newry Crown Court. Sir Jeffrey has entered a plea of not guilty to 18 charges, which include one count of rape, four counts of gross indecency, and 13 counts of indecent assault.

These alleged offences span a period between 1985 and 2008 and involve two alleged victims.

Lady Eleanor Donaldson, Sir Jeffrey’s wife, faces a trial of the facts on related charges of aiding and abetting. She has denied these charges but was deemed unfit for a conventional trial under the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order, meaning she will not participate directly in the proceedings. She was not present for the trial’s commencement.

The Donaldsons were arrested and charged on 28th March 2024 at their County Down residence. Sir Jeffrey subsequently resigned as DUP leader the following day and did not seek re-election for his Lagan Valley seat.

A jury was sworn in on Tuesday, with the judge indicating the trial is expected to last three to four weeks.