A woman who claims she was sexually abused by Jeffrey Donaldson as a teenager has told a court she suffered nightmares and would wake up screaming. The alleged victim, now in her 40s, gave evidence via video link at the trial of the former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader.
Police Interview Details
In a police interview played to the jury at the Crown Court in Belfast, the woman described how the alleged abuse affected her. She said: 'I would have nightmares. I would wake up screaming. I would be terrified.' The court heard she also told officers she felt 'dirty' and 'ashamed' after the incidents, which she says occurred when she was between the ages of 14 and 16.
Background of the Case
Jeffrey Donaldson, 63, faces 18 charges including indecent assault and gross indecency with a child. The alleged offences date back to the 1980s and 1990s. Donaldson, who resigned as DUP leader after the allegations emerged, denies all charges. His wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, is also on trial accused of aiding and abetting the alleged abuse. She denies the charge.
The prosecution alleges that Donaldson abused the woman on multiple occasions at various locations, including his family home. The woman said in her police interview that she felt she could not tell anyone at the time because she was 'scared' and 'embarrassed'. She added: 'I just wanted to forget about it.'
Court Proceedings
The trial, now in its third week, continues to hear evidence from the prosecution. The defence has indicated it will challenge the credibility of the alleged victim's account. The judge has warned the jury not to be influenced by the high-profile nature of the case.
The woman's cross-examination is expected to begin later this week. The trial is scheduled to last several more weeks.
