Sir Jeffrey Donaldson Faces New Sex Offence Charges in Court
Former Democratic Unionist Party leader, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, faced 18 sex offence charges in Newry court, initially accused of 11. His wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, faces five charges. The offences allegedly occurred between 1985 and 2008, following the couple's arrest on 28 March at their County Down home.
Former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, appeared in Newry court to face 18 sex offence charges.
Initially charged with 11 offences in April, additional allegations include his wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, who now faces five charges.
The offences allegedly occurred between 1985 and 2008, involving two victims.
The couple were arrested on 28 March at their County Down home and released on bail following the charges.
Sir Jeffrey, a long-serving MP first elected in 1997, quit as DUP leader upon being charged and will not contest the next general election.
The couple’s initial court appearance was on 24 April.
After a preliminary hearing, additional charges were filed, requiring another appearance.
Sir Jeffrey, who joined the DUP in 2003, was knighted in 2016 for his political service.