Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to 18 charges related to historical sex offences, including one count of rape.
His trial will begin on March 24, Newry Crown Court heard.
Donaldson, one of Northern Ireland's best-known politicians and an outspoken Christian, stepped down suddenly as head of the British region's largest unionist party in March after the DUP said he had been charged with allegations of an historical nature.
The charges include 13 counts of indecent assault on a female child and four counts of gross indecency towards a child. The charges relate to two complainants and the events allegedly took place between 1985 and 2008.
Donaldson's wife Eleanor pleaded not guilty to three charges, including aiding and abetting rape, during Tuesday's hearing.
A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.
Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.
For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.
Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.
Support Us
