Evangelical Alliance Northern Ireland called for better support for women and girls experiencing domestic violence after a court found former politician Jeffrey Donaldson guilty of historical sex offenses and assault against two women when they were children.
Newry Crown Court in Northern Ireland on June 22 found Jeffrey Donaldson, 63, guilty of 18 historical sex offenses against the two women when they were minors, including one count of rape, according to the BBC. Donaldson served as the leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) from 2021 to 2024.
The jury also found that his wife, Eleanor Donaldson, committed the acts alleged in five counts against her, including four counts of aiding and abetting her husband's offending and one count of child cruelty. Because Eleanor Donaldson was found unfit to stand trial on mental health grounds, the court instead held a trial of the facts, in which the jury determined whether she committed the alleged acts rather than whether she was criminally guilty, according to the BBC.
In a statement posted on social media after the verdicts, David Smyth, head of Evangelical Alliance Northern Ireland, called for better support for victims.
"This unanimous result on all charges is a clear vindication for the two brave women who testified against Jeffrey Donaldson," Smyth said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with them today and in those that lie ahead.
"This is another sombre moment when we need to consider again how we better respond to violence against women and girls."
Smyth contrasted a politician wearing symbols of Christianity yet acting wrongly with the courage of his victims.
"The public figure who wore a Christian fish pin on his lapel has yet to show signs of remorse and repentance; in contrast, these women demonstrated the faith they professed with courage and grace," Smyth said.
Amy Scott, public policy officer for Evangelical Alliance Northern Ireland, reminded fellow Christians of the need to stand with abuse survivors.
"Our first thoughts are with the two survivors whose immense courage and bravery have brought these abuses into the light," Scott said.
"No position of authority, influence or public standing, nor any profession of faith, should ever shield someone from accountability.
"As Christians, we are called to stand with those who have been harmed, pursue justice, and work toward cultures where the vulnerable are protected and abuse is never ignored or concealed."
