Prosecutor outlines case against former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson
Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, is facing serious charges including 18 sexual offences involving two alleged victims. The trial, which is one of the most significant in Northern Ireland's recent history, includes allegations of child sexual assault and complicity from his wife, Eleanor Donaldson. Both defendants deny the charges, and the trial is expected to last about four weeks.
- ▪Jeffrey Donaldson is charged with 18 sexual offences, including one count of rape, spanning from 1985 to 2008.
- ▪His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, is charged with aiding and abetting rape and indecent assault but has been deemed unfit to stand trial on mental health grounds.
- ▪The trial will include pre-recorded interviews with the complainants, who allege they were sexually assaulted as children.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Jeffrey Donaldson leaves Newry court house after the second day of his trial, 27 May 2026. Photograph: Charles McQuillan/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenJeffrey Donaldson leaves Newry court house after the second day of his trial, 27 May 2026. Photograph: Charles McQuillan/Getty ImagesNorthern IrelandProsecutor outlines case against former DUP leader Jeffrey DonaldsonEx-MP is charged with 18 sexual offences involving two alleged victims, and his wife with aiding and abetting Rory Carroll Ireland correspondentWed 27 May 2026 14.04 EDTLast modified on Wed 27 May 2026 14.05 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleJeffrey Donaldson sexually assaulted a child and years later apologised to her at a church-brokered meeting, a court has heard.The former MP and Democratic Unionist party leader…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — World.
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