Former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Jeffrey Donaldson has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of 18 counts of sexual abuse. The 63-year-old, who served as the Member of Parliament for Lagan Valley, was sentenced at Newry Crown Court on Thursday, having stood in the dock with his hands clasped as the judge delivered the verdict. Which he committed against two women when they were children, he was convicted in June of 18 counts of sex abuse.
Judge Paul Ramsey sentenced Donaldson to 11 years for his crimes against one victim and four years for offenses against a second, with the terms to run consecutively. The judge remarked that the defendant’s actions had resulted in a “catastrophic descent into disgrace,” noting that the long-term nature of the offenses and the age gap between the perpetrator and the victims were significant aggravating factors. According to judge Ramsey, Aggravating features include the length and protracted nature of the offending spanning many years. Adding that he could not accept Donaldson’s lack of other convictions as a mitigating factor, he also took into account the youth of the victims and the age difference between them and Donaldson.
Throughout the proceedings, Donaldson maintained his innocence. Judge Ramsey highlighted the lack of remorse shown by the former politician, stating, “It is highly significant that the defendant denied the offences to the police, he denied them in evidence and to the probation officer he continues to maintain his denials.” The judge added that there has been no expression of apology or shame to provide comfort to the victims. Furthermore, the court noted that by choosing to contest the case, the defendant forfeited the sentence reduction typically granted for a guilty plea.
Donaldson, who has been held in Maghaberry Prison since his conviction in June, is currently seeking to appeal his convictions. As part of his sentencing, he will be required to remain on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
Separately, the court addressed the case of Eleanor Donaldson, the former leader’s wife. A jury previously determined that she had performed acts relating to five charges, including four counts of aiding and abetting her husband’s offenses. This determination was made following a trial of the facts focused on mental health grounds.
While Eleanor Donaldson cannot be sentenced to prison time, she could receive a treatment order or an absolute discharge. The court has confirmed that the final decision regarding her penalty is pending and will be determined by the judge at a later date. She has also lodged an application to appeal the court’s findings.
