Prosecution Highlights Accusers' Visible 'Pain and Hurt' in Jeffrey Donaldson Sex Abuse Trial
In her closing address, prosecution barrister Rosemary Walsh KC emphasised the "long and arduous process" undertaken by the complainants, identified as Complainant A and B, in bringing forward their allegations. Walsh stated, "This is no walk in the park. This is not something they are doing for the fun of it or the sake of it."
Sir Jeffrey Donaldson faces 18 sex abuse charges, including one count of rape, allegedly committed from 1985 to 2008. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts. Furthermore, the jury is also considering findings against his wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, who denies five related charges of aiding and abetting in a trial of the facts.
Walsh explained that human nature often leads individuals to suppress traumatic experiences, a coping mechanism she attributed to Complainant A and B over the years. However, she pointed to "turning points" that ultimately led both women to report their allegations to the police in March 2024. "Today you see two women at a time when they are ready for this, but they've not always been that way," Walsh told the jury.
The barrister highlighted Complainant A's awareness that this would not be "a normal case" due to Sir Jeffrey's public stature, describing it as a "huge, huge decision" not made lightly. Complainant B reportedly blamed herself for Complainant A's alleged abuse for not coming forward sooner. Walsh noted that despite Complainant B having previously confided in others, including a Christian pastor and friends, about childhood abuse, "the gory details" were not shared because "no one asked her."
Sir Jeffrey denies acts of gross indecency and indecent assault against Complainant A between 1999 and 2008, and other alleged offences, including a rape charge, against Complainant B dating back to 1985.
Lady Donaldson's involvement is a trial of the facts, as she was deemed medically unfit for a conventional trial and is not actively participating in the proceedings. The trial is ongoing.
