Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party, is currently on trial facing 18 charges of sexual abuse, including one count of rape.

The 61-year-old politician has entered not guilty pleas to all charges against him. Donaldson stepped down from his leadership role with the DUP earlier this year after being charged.

During court proceedings, Donaldson denied allegations that he had met with his accuser in an attempt to prevent the charges from being brought forward. The prosecution has suggested he sought to "nip in the bud" the allegations against him.

Donaldson served as DUP leader from 2021 until his resignation following the charges. He had been a prominent figure in Northern Irish politics for decades, representing Lagan Valley as a Member of Parliament since 1997.

The trial is ongoing, with Donaldson maintaining his innocence on all counts. The case has drawn significant attention given his former position as leader of one of Northern Ireland's major political parties.