Former DUP Leader Jeffrey Donaldson Trial Set November Amid Sexual Abuse Charges

The trial of current DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife Eleanor Donaldson, both denying charges related to alleged historical sexual offences, has been rescheduled to begin on November 3 following a delay due to Eleanor Donaldson's ill health. The charges against Jeffrey Donaldson, who has pleaded not guilty, include one count of rape, indecent assault, and gross indecency, with alleged incidents spanning from 1985 to 2008 involving two victims. Eleanor Donaldson faces charges of aiding and abetting, which she also denies. A consultant psychiatrist examined Eleanor on July 18, and a report is expected soon, which will determine if she is fit to stand trial; the prosecution plans to have another doctor examine her as well. Judge Paul Ramsey has emphasized the importance of not delaying the trial further and has scheduled a case update for September 11 at Newry Crown Court, where the defendants' attendance will not be required. Jeffrey Donaldson resigned as DUP leader and was suspended from the party following his arrest last year.