DUP Leader Convicted on 18 Sex Offenses | Belfast News

Jeffrey Donaldson, former DUP leader, has been convicted on 18 counts of sexual offenses against minors, including rape — a unanimous verdict at Newry Crown Court. Allegations have simmered since 2021, when Ian Paisley Jr. claimed Donaldson exploited a woman and urged others to block his leadership bid, citing drunken misconduct and inappropriate advances. The DUP says it was unaware of these issues until now, but is now launching an internal review amid fears some members may have known. With elections looming and public trust eroding, the party faces a daunting path to recovery — and the world is watching how they handle this crisis. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9ba54d3d60451216