UK

Ex-DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson facing seven more sex offence charges

Ex-DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson facing seven more sex offence charges

Former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is facing further sex offence charges, bringing the total to 18.

The Northern Ireland politician has been charged with seven more offences after the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) considered police evidence.

When he appeared in court in April, the ex-MP was accused of 11 sex offences.

His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, 58, is charged with aiding and abetting him.

The offences are alleged to have taken place between 1985 and 2006 and involve two alleged victims.

The couple were released on bail after appearing at Newry Magistrates Court in Co Down on 24 April.

Sir Jeffrey, who was Northern Ireland’s longest-serving MP, resigned as DUP leader after he was charged on 28 March following a day of questioning.

In a letter to the party, the 61-year-old said he would be strenuously contesting the charges.