Former Mid and East Antrim Council Chief Anne Donaghy Referred to Prosecutors

Anne Donaghy, the former chief executive of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, has been referred to prosecutors for consideration of charges related to alleged misconduct in public office. The Public Prosecution Service (PPS) is now examining the evidence.

Two other individuals have also been referred for potential prosecution stemming from the same investigation. These referrals centre on claims of misconduct linked to clothing expenses incurred by Peter Johnston during his tenure as mayor for the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).

Ms Donaghy resigned from her leadership role at the council in September 2021. The period of the alleged misconduct under investigation pertains to her time in that position. Details surrounding the precise nature of the alleged misconduct have not been publicly disclosed by authorities, pending the PPS's review.

This development underscores continued scrutiny over public spending and official conduct within Northern Irish local governance, particularly concerning the use of public funds for personal expenses by elected officials.