Donaldson Trial: Evidence “not sufficiently reliable” to convict, court hears

Donaldson Trial: Evidence “not sufficiently reliable” to convict, court hears

Author: Belfast Telegraph June 17, 2026 Duration: 8:03

Jeffrey Donaldson’s trial is nearing its end. The court has now heard the closing arguments – all that remains is for the judge to give directions to the jury. On Wednesday, Donaldson’s barrister told the jury the complainants were “not sufficiently reliable enough to drive you to a sure conclusion that he is guilty”. 63-year-old Jeffrey Donaldson has pleaded not guilty to 18 alleged offences which include one count of rape and allegations of indecent assault and gross indecency. His wife Eleanor Donaldson’s barrister asked the jury to end her nightmare by returning verdicts that she did not do the acts alleged.  The sixty-year-old from Dublinhill Road in Dromore, Co Down, denies several charges of aiding and abetting her husband’s alleged offending.  

She is facing a trial of the facts to test the evidence in the case but cannot result in a criminal conviction.  

 

Allison Morris was in court.   


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


For a clear-eyed look at the politics and people shaping Northern Ireland, turn to The BelTel. This podcast moves beyond the headlines, offering context and depth on the stories dominating the conversation. Regular voices include seasoned journalists like Allison Morris, Sam McBride, and Suzanne Breen, who bring their sharp analysis and insider perspectives directly to you. Presented by Ciarán Dunbar, the discussions are timely, informed, and grounded in the region's complex reality. New episodes arrive three times a week, each one serving as an essential briefing that investigates pressing issues, debates differing viewpoints, and informs listeners with nuance. It’s a direct line to the heart of the news from those who know it best. This is a production from the Belfast Telegraph, hosted on Acast.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The BelTel
Podcast Episodes
Does Andy Burnham really care about Northern Ireland? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:37
Andy Burnham has officially entered Downing Street, and has shook up the Labour Cabinet. In his maiden speech, the former mayor of Manchester has vowed “take power out of downing street, and carry it into every postcode…
The Orange Order and the Twelfth, how did it come about? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:24
Long associated with the Orange Order, marching bands and bonfires – the Twelfth goes back a long way. But what is the origin of the celebrations, of the order itself and does the organisation have a future? Ciarán Dunba…