Donaldson Sent for Trial on 18 Sex Charges

Former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, have been sent for trial on historical sex offence charges. Jeffrey Donaldson faces 18 charges, including one count of rape, four of gross indecency, and 13 of indecent assault, while Eleanor Donaldson faces five charges, including aiding and abetting rape. The charges span from 1985 to 2008 and involve two alleged victims. Both have expressed their intent to contest the charges. They are scheduled for an arraignment hearing at Newry Crown Court on September 10, where they will enter pleas. Donaldson, who resigned as DUP leader and MP for Lagan Valley following the charges, has stated he will strenuously contest them.