Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson denies historic sexual abuse charges

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, is on trial at Newry Crown Court on 18 historic sexual‑offence counts, including one charge of rape, indecent assault and gross indecency. The alleged crimes involve two women and span the period from 1985 to 2008.

Donaldson, 63, has pleaded not guilty. Police interview recordings lasting four and a half hours were played for the jury. In the excerpts he repeatedly said he could not “get his head around” the accusations and denied each allegation, stating “absolutely not” and “I’m sorry but I can’t get my head around this notion.” His wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, also denies any involvement and is not participating in the proceedings.

The trial follows Donaldson’s arrest in March 2024 and his subsequent questioning at Antrim police station. The case is being heard in Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom.