Second alleged victim testifies as Jeffrey Donaldson rape trial continues
The trial of former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Jeffrey Donaldson entered its second day today as a second alleged victim testified against him, accusing the 63-year-old of rape and multiple sexual offences. Donaldson, who represented Northern Ireland’s Lagan Valley constituency in the UK Parliament until his resignation last year, denies all 18 charges, which include gross indecency, indecent assault, and rape spanning a period from 1987 to 2004.
Prosecutors presented a police interview with the first complainant, who alleged Donaldson apologised to her for his actions, according to *The Irish Times* and *The Journal* . The court heard that the woman, whose identity is protected, described the alleged assault in detail during her recorded statement. A second alleged victim is expected to give evidence later this week, with proceedings adjourned until Thursday.
Donaldson, who led the DUP from 2021 until his arrest in 2024, stepped down as an MP and party leader following the charges. His trial, held at Belfast Crown Court, is one of the most high-profile sexual offence cases in Northern Ireland’s recent history, drawing parallels to other political figures embroiled in abuse allegations. The case has reignited debates over institutional accountability, with former French Prime Minister Bernard Cazeneuve arguing in *Libération* that upholding the presumption of innocence must not equate to "indifference" toward victims .
The trial is expected to last several weeks, with the prosecution relying heavily on witness testimony. Donaldson remains on bail, and no date has been set for a verdict. His legal team has not yet presented its defence.
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