Jeffrey Donaldson sentenced to 15 years for historic sexual offences

Former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Jeffrey Donaldson has been sentenced to 15 years in prison following his conviction for 18 historic sexual offences against two women. The offences, which occurred between 1985 and 2008 and included one count of rape, were committed when the victims were children.

Judge Paul Ramsey stated at Newry Crown Court that Donaldson, 63, had shown no “regret, apology or shame” and had “doubled down on his denials” following his conviction. Under automatic remission, Donaldson will serve seven and a half years in prison, with the remainder of the sentence spent under community supervision. He will also be required to sign the sex offenders register for life.

Reports indicate that Donaldson had planned to relocate to Northern Africa to start a new life with potential job opportunities if he had been found not guilty. While Donaldson is seeking to appeal his convictions, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald expressed hope that the sentencing would bring some level of closure and comfort to the victims.