Jeffrey Donaldson Takes the Stand
The former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has appeared as a witness in his ongoing sex abuse trial at Newry Crown Court. He was called to give evidence by his defence barrister, Kieran Vaughan KC.
Sir Jeffrey, aged 63, faces 18 charges of sexual abuse, which allegedly occurred between 1985 and 2008. The trial has now entered its third week.
Details of Allegations
There are two alleged victims involved in the case, both of whom reported their allegations to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in March 2024.
Sir Jeffrey denies all charges, including acts of gross indecency and indecent assault against Complainant A during her childhood, alleged to have taken place between 1999 and 2008.
Additional allegations, some dating back to 1985 and including a charge of rape, concern a second woman, Complainant B, also alleged to have been a child at the time. Sir Jeffrey denies these allegations as well.
Charges Against Lady Eleanor Donaldson
Sir Jeffrey's wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, faces five charges of aiding and abetting the alleged offences. However, she is not actively participating in the current proceedings.
Lady Donaldson is subject to a trial of the facts after being previously deemed unfit to undergo a conventional trial due to mental health reasons.
