The Metropolitan Police is investigating an allegation of rape against jailed former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Jeffrey Donaldson, reportedly committed inside the Houses of Parliament in 2016.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has interviewed the woman making the allegation and has shared her account with officers in London, according to the BBC. Donaldson, a former MP, was sentenced last week to 15 years in prison for a series of child sex offences against two victims, including one count of rape that took place between 1985 and 2008.
Met Statement on Investigation
The Met issued a statement confirming that a 63-year-old man is being investigated but did not name Donaldson directly. A force spokesman said: "On Tuesday October, 13 the Met received a report referred to us by the Police Service of Northern Ireland relating to an allegation of rape in 2016, by a man now aged 63."
The spokesman added: "The allegation relates to one victim who is being supported by specialist officers. The investigation is in its early stages. No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing."
Allegations and Sentencing
The Belfast Telegraph reported in July that a woman from Northern Ireland had alleged she was sexually assaulted by Donaldson in the DUP offices in Parliament in 2016. She claimed he attempted to get her to drink shots of vodka before trying to kiss her and put his hand up her skirt. The newspaper reported on Saturday that the Met was set to investigate and interview the former DUP leader about these accusations. It has now emerged the same woman has also alleged she was raped.
Donaldson was jailed last week for 11 years for rape against one victim and a further four years for assaults on a second victim, to be served consecutively. During sentencing, Judge Paul Ramsey said the former politician had experienced a "catastrophic descent into disgrace". He added: "There has not been, and doubtless will not be, one word of regret, apology or shame from this man to at least provide his victims with some crumb of comfort."
Party Response
The DUP said Donaldson "deserves every day of the lengthy prison service he has to serve". In a statement, the party added: "Justice has been done with the sentencing of Jeffrey Donaldson for his vile and disgusting crimes against his victims. Our first thoughts are again with the innocent victims, who having suffered such evil, were re-traumatised through giving evidence at the trial. They deserve our compassion, support and respect. We hope they can find some measure of comfort and can look ahead to a new chapter in their lives."
Donaldson's solicitor has previously confirmed that papers have been lodged for an appeal.
