Current and ex-DUP members knew of allegations about Jeffrey Donaldson, party says
Summary
The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) said that some current and former members knew about allegations against Jeffrey Donaldson but did not report them properly. Donaldson was recently found guilty of child sexual abuse, and new serious claims about his behavior have caused a crisis in the party. The DUP has started an independent review to investigate how the party handled the information.Key Facts
- Jeffrey Donaldson, former DUP leader, was found guilty of 18 sexual offenses against children.
- Donaldson faces sentencing in September and plans to appeal the verdict.
- Allegations include inappropriate sexual behavior, visiting a gay sauna while condemning homosexuality, and getting very drunk on trips.
- Some DUP members knew about other allegations but did not formally report them.
- Two senior party leaders were informed five years ago about a woman claiming exploitation by Donaldson.
- The DUP suspended Donaldson after he was first charged in 2024.
- Critics question the independence of the DUP’s internal review investigating these matters.
- The party is under significant pressure ahead of next year’s assembly election.
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