Jeffrey Donaldson sent for trial on sex offence charges

https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2024/0703/1457886-jeffrey-donaldson-court/

Jeffrey Donaldson sent for trial on sex offence charges
Updated / Wednesday, 3 Jul 2024 11:13
Jeffrey Donaldson pictured as he arrived at Newry Magistrates Court
Jeffrey Donaldson pictured as he arrived at Newry Magistrates Court
By Vincent Kearney
Northern Editor

A judge has ruled that there is sufficient evidence for former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson to face trial on 18 sex offence charges, including one count of rape.

In addition to one charge of rape he faces four counts of gross indecency and 13 charges of indecent assault.

The former MP for Lagan Valley said he had nothing to say "at this stage" when the charges were read out to him at Newry Magistrates' Court this morning.

His wife and co-accused, Eleanor Donaldson, will stand trial faced with five charges, including aiding and abetting.

She replied "no" when asked if she had anything to say in response to the changes.

Both defendants also said they did not want to enter written statements of evidence at this time.

In a letter to the DUP announcing his decision to resign as party leader in March, Mr Donaldson said he will strenuously deny the charges.

The couple appeared in court today for a preliminary enquiry to establish if there is sufficient evidence for the case to go to trial at the Crown Court.

Judge Eamonn King said there was and a hearing was listed for 10 September.

"I am satisfied on the basis of the papers before the court that there is a prima facie case to answer," the judge said.

Mr Donaldson's offences are alleged to have occurred between 1985 and 2008 and involve two alleged victims.

His wife Eleanor’s offences are alleged to have taken place between 1987 and 2008.

The pair were arrested at their home on 28 March and charged by police and released on bail after a day of questioning.