Topic analysis

Sex abuse trial of former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson under way as jury sworn in

The sex abuse trial of former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has commenced at Newry Crown Court, with a jury sworn in after a 40-minute selection process; the 63-year-old has pleaded not guilty to 18 charges including rape, gross indecency, and indecent assault alleged to have occurred between 1985 and 2008 involving two victims. His wife Lady Eleanor Donaldson faces a trial of the facts on aiding and abetting charges after being deemed unfit for a conventional trial due to health issues, and authorities have warned against social media comments that could prejudice proceedings or identify the anonymous complainants, noting contempt of court can carry up to two years' imprisonment.