Ex-DUP chief contests historical sex abuse charges at Newry trial

A former DUP leader is on trial for 18 historical sexual offences, including rape, with proceedings underway at Newry Crown Court.

Ex-DUP chief contests historical sex abuse charges at Newry trial

A former Democratic Unionist Party leader is standing trial for alleged historical sexual crimes, with proceedings taking place at Newry Crown Court.

On Monday, jurors heard recordings from police questioning sessions that occurred following the defendant's apprehension in 2024. The 63-year-old politician, who once served as an MP, listened from the back of the courtroom as the tapes were played.

During the interrogation, the accused rejected claims that he had sexually abused two females when they were minors. When confronted with an allegation of rape, he responded that the accusation was impossible to comprehend. He admitted offering an apology to one individual during a face-to-face encounter, but explained this was due to her feeling uneasy rather than any admission of wrongdoing.

The defendant faces 18 separate counts, spanning from 1985 through 2008. Among these is one charge of rape, along with multiple counts of indecent assault and gross indecency. The complainants, who both came forward to police in March 2024, assert they suffered abuse during childhood.

Throughout the recorded sessions, the accused consistently denied the allegations. When asked about specific physical acts described by one complainant, he rejected each accusation. He also dismissed a claim about heavy breathing by noting he had never suffered from asthma.

The trial continues before a jury comprising five women and seven men.

Source: Extra.ie

Source: Google News IE — Crime (en)