Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), has been found guilty of 18 historical sex offences against two women when they were children. The verdict was delivered at Newry Crown Court on 22 June 2026.
Convictions Include Rape and Multiple Indecent Assaults
The offences for which Donaldson was convicted include one count of rape, 13 counts of indecent assault, and four counts of gross indecency. The charges relate to incidents that occurred when the victims were children.
His wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, was also found to have committed acts of aiding and abetting in connection with the historical sex offences, following a trial of the facts at the same court.
Impact and Reaction
The convictions mark a significant fall from grace for Donaldson, who led the DUP and was a prominent figure in Northern Irish politics. The court proceedings have drawn widespread attention, highlighting the seriousness of historical sexual abuse cases.
Further details regarding sentencing and the full scope of the offences are expected to be released in due course. The case has prompted discussions about accountability and justice for victims of historical abuse.
