Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
Jeffrey Donaldson was last month convicted of 18 sexual offences, including one count of rape. Alamy Stock Photo
Northern Ireland
Jeffrey Donaldson lodges appeal against child sex offence convictions
The former DUP leader was last month found guilty by a jury of 18 sexual offences following a four-week trial at Newry Crown Court.
JEFFREY DONALDSON HAS lodged an appeal against his convictions for multiple sexual offences against two women when they were children.
The 63-year-old former DUP leader was last month found guilty by a jury of 18 sexual offences following a four-week trial at Newry Crown Court.
He was convicted of one count of rape, 13 counts of indecent assault and four counts of gross indecency on dates between 1985 and 2008.
Donaldson had pleaded not guilty to all counts.
He was remanded in custody to Maghaberry Prison near Lisburn in Co Antrim following the verdict. He is due to be sentenced on 25 September, with a review date ahead of that on 11 September.
In a statement to The Journal, his solicitor John McBurney confirmed that papers had been lodged for an appeal.
“I can confirm having lodged this afternoon, on behalf of Jeffrey Donaldson, appeal papers with the relevant office of the Court of Appeal,” he said.
have your say