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Ex-DUP Leader Donaldson Pleads Not Guilty to 18 Abuse Charges

6/12/2026

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Donaldson Pleads NotGuilty

Two women who say they were abused as children testified at the Newry Crown Court trial.
Former Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson pleaded not guilty to 18 historical sexual offence charges at Newry Crown Court.
Witnesses noted that he entered the box wearing a blue suit and a red tie.
His wife Eleanor Donaldson denies aiding and abetting and faces a trial on mental-health grounds.

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Donaldson Denies Claim

Donaldson dismissed the claim that he kissed a child with his tongue as ‘ridiculous’ while testifying.
The trial at Newry Crown Court will run through most of June, with Jeffrey Donaldson as the defendant.
He was arrested and charged in March 2024, prompting resignation as Democratic Unionist Party leader.
His attire featured a blue suit and red tie as he entered the witness box.

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Donaldson Pleads NotGuilty

Two women who say they were abused as children testified at the Newry Crown Court trial.
Former Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson pleaded not guilty to 18 historical sexual offence charges at Newry Crown Court.
Witnesses noted that he entered the box wearing a blue suit and a red tie.
His wife Eleanor Donaldson denies aiding and abetting and faces a trial on mental-health grounds.

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