Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson faces sexual offences trial in Newry

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, is on trial at Newry Crown Court for 18 alleged sexual offences dating from 1985 to 2008, including one count of rape, indecent assault and gross indecency. He has pleaded not guilty. Two women, identified as Complainants A and B, have given evidence describing abuse that began in childhood.

The defence, led by barrister Kieran Vaughan KC, argued the complainants are “not sufficiently reliable” and urged the jury to “ignore the noise, focus on the evidence.” Vaughan questioned the credibility of the witnesses, describing their memories as “foggy” and suggesting they could fabricate or omit details.

Prosecution barrister Rosemary Walsh KC highlighted the lasting impact on the victims, stating “the pain and hurt is still so visible.” She described the long and arduous process the women endured to bring forward their allegations. Lady Eleanor Donaldson, Jeffrey’s wife, denies aiding and abetting and faces a separate trial of the facts on mental‑health grounds that cannot lead to a criminal conviction. The trial continues with a jury of twelve.