Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, has pleaded not guilty to 18 charges of sexual abuse. His wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, has also entered a not guilty plea to five charges related to aiding and abetting.

The charges against the couple represent a significant legal development involving one of Northern Ireland's most prominent political figures. Donaldson previously served as the leader of the DUP, Northern Ireland's largest unionist party, before stepping down from the position.

According to court proceedings, Donaldson reportedly told police that the sex abuse allegations against him were "unbelievable." The specific nature and timeline of the alleged offenses have not been detailed in public court records.

The case involves multiple charges spanning different categories of alleged sexual offenses. Lady Eleanor Donaldson's charges relate to allegations that she aided and abetted in connection with some of the offenses attributed to her husband.

Both defendants have formally denied all charges against them through their not guilty pleas entered in court. The legal proceedings are expected to continue as the case moves through the court system.