Former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is facing historical sex offence charges. The court has set a preliminary hearing for July 3, with the case progressing “on track”. Sir Jeffrey, 61, faces one count of rape, one count of gross indecency with a child, and nine counts of indecent assault. His wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, is facing charges of aiding and abetting.
The accused did not appear in court for the three-minute hearing at Newry Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday. The case involves allegations of offences occurring between 1985 and 2006, and two alleged victims. The Donaldsons were arrested on March 28 and charged after questioning. They remain released on bail.
Sir Jeffrey resigned as DUP leader after being charged and said in a letter to the party that he would strenuously contest the charges. Papers were received by their solicitors ahead of the hearing, allowing the preliminary inquiry to go ahead in July.
The prosecution case against the former leader is a significant development in the Northern Irish political climate. The DUP has always been a key player in Northern Irish politics but is currently in turmoil after a series of scandals. The news of the charges is expected to further weaken the party’s position and possibly lead to a leadership contest. Sir Jeffrey’s resignation sent shockwaves through the party, and his court case is likely to attract further attention. The family members of the accused have not made any public statements about the allegations
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