Review date scheduled for Jeffrey Donaldson's case

A review hearing for the legal case involving former DUP leader Jeffrey

A formal hearing has been scheduled to review the legal case concerning the sex offence allegations against former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife, Lady Donaldson.

Details of the Review Hearing

The hearing is arranged to occur at Newry Crown Court on 5 May. This review will take place approximately three weeks prior to the trial, which is currently set to commence on 26 May.

Charges Against the Donaldsons

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, aged 63, faces a total of 18 charges, including one charge of rape. The allegations cover a period extending from 1985 to 2008. Lady Donaldson, aged 59, faces five charges for allegedly aiding and abetting these offences. Together, the couple denies all 23 charges.

Arrest and Court Proceedings

The Donaldsons were both arrested and formally charged in March 2024. For today’s preliminary hearing, neither Sir Jeffrey nor Lady Donaldson was required to attend. The presiding judge has also confirmed that their presence will not be necessary for the review scheduled on 5 May.

Summary of Key Facts

• Case involves former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and Lady Donaldson.
• Review hearing is set for 5 May at Newry Crown Court.
• Trial date is scheduled for 26 May.
• Total number of charges: 23 (Sir Jeffrey: 18, Lady Donaldson: 5).
• Alleged offences took place between 1985 and 2008.
• Sir Jeffrey faces one count of rape among other charges.
• The couple denies all allegations.
• Arrest and charging occurred in March 2024.
• No attendance required for the upcoming review hearing.

Sources:

• Case of Jeffrey and Eleanor Donaldson adjourned for further review hearing - Belfast Telegraph
• Date set for case review relating to Jeffrey Donaldson's alleged sex offences trial amid 2 new medical reports on wife - The Sun
• Medical report on Eleanor Donaldson ‘imminent’, court told - The Irish News
• Date set for review of Jeffrey Donaldson case