The trial of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, a high-profile figure in Northern Irish politics, has reached its critical stage as a jury begins deliberating on verdicts. The former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) faces 18 charges spanning two decades, including allegations of rape and indecent assault against two alleged victims.
Sir Jeffrey, aged 63, maintains his innocence in the face of these serious claims, which centre on events said to have occurred between 1985 and 2008. The trial has seen both alleged victims give evidence, as well as Sir Jeffrey himself taking the stand for two days. The prosecution must prove its case against him beyond reasonable doubt if a conviction is to be secured.
His wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, 60, also faces charges of aiding and abetting her husband's alleged offending, but has undergone a separate trial of the facts due to concerns over her mental health. The jury will consider whether she committed the acts in question, though this cannot result in a criminal conviction.
With the judge's summing-up complete, the seven men and five women on the jury are now tasked with reaching a verdict. They have been instructed that only when they are satisfied the prosecution has proven its case beyond doubt can a conviction be returned.
The couple's arrest on 28 March 2024 at their home in County Down sparked widespread attention due to Sir Jeffrey's former position as DUP leader, which he resigned earlier this year. The high-profile nature of the trial has maintained public interest throughout the proceedings.