Independent MLA Doug Beattie has called on the Police Ombudsman to launch an investigation into what law enforcement authorities knew about former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson prior to his arrest. Donaldson was convicted last week on 18 sexual offences, including one count of rape, involving two female victims when they were children.

The request for an inquiry comes amid questions regarding the extent of awareness within the Democratic Unionist Party about Donaldson’s alleged behavior before his 2024 arrest. According to a report by BBC Northern Ireland’s Spotlight program, a police detective had suspicions as early as a year before Donaldson was formally identified to the police, raising concerns about potential early knowledge of his actions.

Beattie has emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, urging the Police Ombudsman to thoroughly examine whether any information was withheld or inadequately acted upon by police or political figures. The investigation would seek to clarify the timeline of disclosures and responses related to Donaldson’s conduct.

The DUP has yet to comment on the calls for an independent review. Law enforcement agencies have not released details about their internal knowledge ahead of the investigation. The unfolding developments have intensified scrutiny on how allegations of abuse are handled within both political and policing institutions in Northern Ireland.