The ex-DUP chief, Jeffrey Donaldson, has confidently denied 18 past sex crime charges involving two purported victims. His spouse and joint defendant, Eleanor Donaldson, 58, of Dublinhill Road, Dromore, also rejected guilt for three accusations during an indictment at Newry Crown Court on Tuesday.
Their initial appearance in the crown court was after two prior magistrate court appearances. Newry Courthouse’s compact courtroom was crowded for the session. The pair, defendants, sat apart with court supervision officers in the room’s rear.
Garbed in a blue suit, 61-year-old Mr Donaldson rose to affirm his identity, residence, and birth date. He audibly and emphatically retorted “not guilty” using a microphone as each accusation was recited. He faces one rape allegation, four of gross indecency, and 13 of inappropriate assault. The charges spanned from 1985 to 2008, with two reported victims.
Eleanor Donaldson is being charged with aiding and abetting in relation to the suspected offences. She rejected the three charges levelled against her. Her legal team has requested the withdrawal of two additional charges.
Both parties agreed to a March 24th trial date, Judge Paul Ramsey was informed. The anticipated trial duration is two weeks. The judge scheduled a review of the case for October 25th, but the defendants were excused from attending.
The couple was granted continuing bail following the ten-minute hearing. There was a noticeable police presence when they arrived at the court.
Mr Donaldson, a long-serving MP for Lagan Valley, was apprehended and charged concerning the historical sex charges at the end of March. He stepped down from his DUP leadership role and was suspended from the party following the emergence of the allegations. – PA.