Former DUP Leader Pleads Not Guilty to Historical Sexual Abuse Charges
Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), has pleaded not guilty to 18 charges of historical sexual abuse at Newry Crown Court in County Down. His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, has also entered not-guilty pleas to three related charges.
Mr Donaldson, 61, is facing one charge of rape, four charges of gross indecency, and 13 charges of indecent assault. The alleged offences span a 21-year period from 1987 to 2008. Mrs Donaldson, 58, is contesting three charges, including aiding and abetting.
The couple was arrested at their home in March of this year and appeared in court together for their plea hearing. Mr Donaldson, who stepped down from his role as DUP leader following his arrest, stood firm as the charges were read out.
The case has sent shockwaves through Northern Irish politics, given Mr Donaldson’s prominent role in the DUP and his long-standing career as a Member of Parliament. He served as MP for Lagan Valley from 1997 until his resignation in 2021.
The trial is expected to attract significant media attention due to the high-profile nature of the defendant and the serious nature of the charges. A date for the full trial has not yet been set.
Legal representatives for both Mr. and Mrs. Donaldson have stated that their clients maintain their innocence and look forward to clearing their names in court.
