Donaldson 'Deserves Every Day' Of 15-Year Sentence, Says DUP

The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has said former leader Jeffrey Donaldson “deserves every day” of his 15-year prison sentence for historical sexual offences against two girls.

Donaldson, 63, was sentenced at Newry Crown Court on Thursday after being convicted of 18 sexual offences, including the rape of a child, indecent assault and gross indecency.

The offences were committed between 1985 and 2008, when his victims were children.

In a statement following the sentencing, the DUP said justice had been done and expressed its support for the two victims.

“Today justice has been done with the sentencing of Jeffrey Donaldson for his vile and disgusting crimes against his victims,” the party said.

“Our first thoughts are again with the innocent victims, who having suffered such evil, were re-traumatised through giving evidence at the trial.

“They deserve our compassion, support and respect. We hope they can find some measure of comfort and can look ahead to a new chapter in their lives.”

The party added that everyone must be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their position or status.

“He deserves every day of the lengthy prison sentence he has to serve following the guilty verdict for preying on innocent child victims,” the statement continued.

Donaldson was sentenced to 11 years in prison for the rape charge and other offences against one victim, with a further four years for offences against the second victim. The sentences are to run consecutively.

Sentencing him, Judge Paul Ramsey described the case as “disturbing and disquieting”. The court heard that Donaldson had continued to deny his guilt following his conviction.

The former Lagan Valley MP has been held at Maghaberry Prison in County Antrim since the end of his trial.

Donaldson was stripped of his knighthood and removed from the Privy Council following his conviction. His solicitor has previously confirmed that papers have been lodged for an appeal.

His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, was found to have aided and abetted his crimes following a trial of the facts, which was held on mental health grounds.

She cannot be given a prison sentence, but the judge may impose a treatment order or grant an absolute discharge.

Eleanor Donaldson has also lodged an appeal against the outcome of her trial of the facts. The judge is due to decide on her case at a later date.