Former Northern Ireland Party Leader Sentenced to 15 Years for Child Sexual Abuse

Northern Ireland:Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party, was sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of 18 child sexual-abuse offences, including rape, involving two victims when they were children. The offences occurred over two periods between 1985 and 1991, and between 1999 and 2008. His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, was found to have committed acts related to several charges of aiding and abetting the abuse, but had previously been deemed medically unfit to stand trial.

Action to Be Taken

Child sexual abuse must be reported and investigated regardless of an alleged offender’s public position. Survivors should have access to long-term counselling, legal support and safeguards against intimidation or exposure.

📰 Source: Public Prosecution Service for Northern Ireland (English)