Former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Jeffrey Donaldson is on trial at Newry Crown Court facing allegations of sexual offences, including rape, gross indecency, and indecent assault. The charges relate to accusations from two women, with alleged incidents occurring between 1985 and 2008.

During the proceedings, one of the alleged victims was questioned about a letter of "regret" sent by Donaldson in 2020. In the letter, Donaldson expressed sorrow, stating, “How much I truly regret all the hurt, pain and distress I have caused.” The contents of the letter did not explicitly reference sexual abuse. However, under cross-examination, the woman testified that the letter carried “connotations of guilt and shame, and asking for forgiveness.”

Donaldson, 63, has pleaded not guilty to all 18 charges brought against him. The trial is ongoing, with further evidence and testimony expected in the coming days.