The sex abuse trial of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, the former DUP leader, has reached a critical stage with the jury continuing its deliberations on 18 charges. As the third day of discussions draws to a close, all eyes are fixed on Newry Crown Court, where Judge Paul Ramsey's summing up left jurors with a clear directive: they must be satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the prosecution has proven its case against Sir Jeffrey.
Sir Jeffrey, 63, denies all allegations, including one count of rape and 13 counts of indecent assault. The alleged offences span over two decades, from 1985 to 2008, and involve two women who were children at the time of the incidents. Both complainants have provided evidence in court.
The trial has seen Sir Jeffrey take the stand in his defence, testifying over two days. Meanwhile, Judge Ramsey has instructed jurors that they must be convinced beyond doubt of the prosecution's case before reaching a conviction. This landmark trial has sent shockwaves through Northern Irish politics, with Sir Jeffrey's swift resignation as DUP leader following the initial charges.
Separately, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, 60, faces five charges of aiding and abetting her husband's alleged offending. Due to mental health grounds, she was declared unfit for a conventional trial last month, and will undergo a trial of the facts in her absence. The jury will determine if she committed the acts alleged, but this process cannot result in a criminal conviction.
The couple were arrested at their County Down home on 28 March 2024, an event that sparked widespread attention throughout Northern Ireland's political landscape. As the court deliberates, the community continues to await justice and closure for those affected by these allegations.