Former DUP Leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson Charged with Rape and Historical Sex Offences

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of the largest unionist party, appeared in court on Wednesday charged with rape and a number of other historical sex offences.

The 61-year-old faces a total of 11 charges, including one count of rape, one count of committing an act of gross indecency, and nine counts of indecent assault on dates between 1985 and 2006. The offences relate to two alleged victims.

Donaldson's wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, 58, also appeared in court to face charges in relation to the same police investigation. She faces charges of aiding and abetting rape and indecent assault, as well as two counts of cruelty to a person under 16 years old.

During the brief hearing at Newry Magistrates' Court, neither defendant was asked to formally enter a plea. They were released on continuing bail and the case was adjourned for four weeks to progress work on setting a date for a preliminary inquiry. Neither defendant will be required to attend court on the next hearing date of May 22, 2024.

Why this matters: The charges against such a high-profile political figure have sent shockwaves through Northern Ireland. As the former leader of the largest unionist party, Donaldson's case could have significant implications for the political landscape in the region.

Donaldson resigned as DUP leader and was suspended from the party after the allegations against him emerged last month. East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson has been appointed interim party leader. In a statement, Donaldson said he intends to "strenuously contest" the charges.

The attorney general warned the public and media about the potential consequences of publishing or sharing commentary on the case, citing the risk of contempt of court. Following Donaldson's arrest, the DUP removed all traces of him from its website and closed down his social media accounts.

Donaldson, who was born into a Presbyterian family in Kilkeel, has had a long political career. He opposed the 1998 Good Friday agreement before joining the DUP in 2004. The hearing marks the first step in what could be a lengthy legal process extending into next year. Donaldson and his wife left the courthouse amid jeers and aggression from members of the public who had gathered outside.

Key Takeaways

• Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson charged with rape, indecent assault in 1985-2006
• Donaldson's wife Eleanor also charged with aiding and abetting, cruelty to a minor
• Charges have sent shockwaves through Northern Ireland's political landscape
• Donaldson resigned as DUP leader, suspended from party after allegations emerged
• The attorney general warned public, media about potential contempt of court consequences