Jeffrey Donaldson, a former MP and ex-leader of the DUP, is facing trial at Newry Crown Court on charges of rape, gross indecency, and indecent assault dating back to the period between 1985 and 2008. His wife, Lady Donaldson, has denied charges of aiding and abetting and is undergoing a trial of the facts due to being deemed unfit for a criminal trial on mental health grounds.
During the trial, a woman referred to as complainant A testified that Donaldson had sexually abused her when she was a child. She emphasized the importance of factual accuracy when questioned by Donaldson’s lawyer and mentioned a letter he had written expressing regret, which she believed was an indirect apology for his actions.
The woman detailed instances of alleged abuse, including inappropriate touching and voyeuristic behavior by Donaldson. His barrister challenged the consistency of her statements regarding the incidents. The woman defended the accuracy of her account and explained her delay in reporting the abuse, citing concerns about publicity and anxiety over the process.
The trial is expected to continue for several weeks, with the woman scheduled to be questioned by Eleanor Donaldson’s legal representative. Jeffrey Donaldson, who resigned as DUP leader following his arrest and charges in March 2024, awaits the court’s verdict as proceedings resume next week.
