Jeffrey Donaldson jailed for 15 years over child sexual abuse offences

Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of a series of historical child sexual abuse offences.

The 63-year-old former Lagan Valley MP appeared before Newry Crown Court on Thursday 15 October, where Judge Paul Ramsey imposed the sentence.

Donaldson was convicted in June of 18 offences, including one count of rape, 13 counts of indecent assault and four counts of gross indecency.

The offences involved two victims who were children when the abuse occurred between 1985 and 2008.

Judge condemns lack of remorse

During sentencing, Judge Paul Ramsey criticised Donaldson for continuing to deny the offences despite his conviction.

The judge described the former politician’s fall from public office as a catastrophic descent into disgrace.

Donaldson had previously denied the allegations and has indicated his intention to appeal.

He has been held at Maghaberry Prison since his conviction earlier this year.

Sex Offenders Register and prevention order

The PSNI confirmed that Donaldson will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.

He will also be subject to a 10-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order.

His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, was found following a separate trial of the facts to have carried out acts alleged in relation to five charges, including four concerning aiding and abetting her husband’s abuse.

A trial of the facts does not result in a criminal conviction. The court will determine the appropriate disposal in her case separately.

Victims praised for courage

Detective Chief Inspector Leah Crothers, from the PSNI’s Public Protection Branch, welcomed the sentencing.

She praised the courage of the two victims, who are now adults, and acknowledged the lasting impact of the abuse.

Both women provided victim impact statements describing the significant consequences the offences have had on their lives.

Police said the investigation demonstrated the importance of supporting victims of historical sexual abuse and ensuring perpetrators are brought before the courts.

End of political career

Donaldson was one of Northern Ireland’s most prominent unionist politicians, serving as MP for Lagan Valley and later leading the Democratic Unionist Party.

He resigned as party leader following his arrest in March 2024.

His knighthood was subsequently removed following his conviction.

The sentencing marks a further major development in one of Northern Ireland’s most high-profile criminal cases.