Northern Ireland unionist ex-leader faces rape and sexual abuse trial
AP News
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The former leader of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party is on trial for allegedly sexually abusing two girls.
Prosecutor Rosemary Walsh told jurors Wednesday that the crimes that Jeffrey Donaldson is accused of date back four decades.
The 63-year-old Donaldson pleaded not guilty to all charges including rape and indecent assault.
The alleged victims reported the incidents to police over two years ago.
Donaldson resigned as DUP leader and lawmaker in March 2024 after his arrest.
His wife Eleanor is accused of aiding him but isn't in court because of mental health issues.
The trial may last up to a month.
Jeffrey Donaldson Sex Abuse Trial
- Sir Jeffrey Donaldson put women through 'difficult and traumatic events' when 'he sexually abused them as children', court hears Daily Mail —
- Prosecution begins outline of case against Donaldson RTE —
- DUP ex-leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson accused of sexually abusing two women Mirror —
- Donaldson trial: Jury hears complainant wrote to defendants over “secret” Belfast Telegraph —
- Jeffrey Donaldson trial: Women claim ex-DUP leader subjected them to 'difficult and traumatic incidents' as children Irish Mirror —