Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson to appeal child sex abuse convictions
Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson has lodged an appeal against his 18 convictions for sex offenses, including rape. The legal challenge is expected to be heard later this year, though it is unlikely to delay his upcoming sentencing.
Why it matters
This case involves a high-profile political figure and addresses significant questions regarding judicial process and the handling of sensitive sex abuse trials.
Image source, PA/ Liam McBurney By Julian O'Neill Crime and justice correspondent, BBC News NI Published 17 July 2026, 15:38 BST Updated 3 minutes ago The former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson is to appeal against his sex offence convictions, it has been confirmed.
His legal team lodged the paperwork with the Court of Appeal in Belfast on Friday.
The document sets out in detail the grounds on which he will attempt to have all 18 guilty verdicts set aside.
Donaldson is in Maghaberry Prison waiting to be sentenced after he was convicted of 18 counts of sex abuse, including one count of rape, committed against two women when they were children.
The move was announced in a short statement from Donaldson's solicitor, John McBurney.
It stated: "I can confirm having lodged this afternoon, on behalf of Jeffrey Donaldson, appeal papers with the relevant office for the Court of Appeal."
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in