Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), was arrested and charged in late March 2024, leading to his resignation and suspension from the party.

Donaldson, aged 62, has pleaded not guilty to 18 charges, including rape and indecent assault, involving two alleged victims from 1985 to 2008.

His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, aged 59, is facing charges of aiding and abetting, which she denies, and was also absent from court during the recent hearing.

During the court proceedings, it was reported that Eleanor Donaldson's medical condition has significantly deteriorated, raising concerns about her fitness to stand trial.

An assessment to determine Eleanor Donaldson's capacity to stand trial is pending, with a forensic psychiatrist appointment scheduled for July 19, 2025.

The trial, originally set for March 2025, has been postponed due to her health issues, with a new date now scheduled for November 3, 2025.

Judge Ramsey plans to review the case again before the end of the legal term on June 26, 2025, and then again on August 1, 2025, without requiring the defendants to attend.

Prosecuting barrister Fiona O'Kane emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in the case, particularly after losing a trial date and noting the lengthy delay since it was first brought to court.

Judge Paul Ramsey has received three medical reports detailing Eleanor Donaldson's mental decline and is awaiting further assessment of her trial capacity.

Following the allegations against him, Gavin Robinson has been appointed as the new leader of the DUP.