Attorney General Warns Public Over Social Media Posts Ahead Of Donaldson Trial

Attorney General Warns Public Over Social Media Posts Ahead Of Donaldson Trial

The Attorney General for Northern Ireland/The North has issued a fresh warning to the public over social media posts ahead of the upcoming trial involving former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson.

Dame Brenda King warned that online commentary could risk breaching contempt of court laws, particularly as the case moves closer to trial.

The trial, involving Donaldson and his wife Eleanor, is due to begin on May 26, after previous delays linked to medical issues.

Donaldson, 63, has pleaded not guilty to a number of alleged historical sexual offences, including one count of rape and multiple counts of indecent assault and gross indecency, covering a period between 1985 and 2008.

Eleanor Donaldson, 59, is also before the courts facing charges of aiding and abetting, which she denies.

In her warning, Dame Brenda King said she is concerned about the potential impact of online posts on any future jury.

She stated that individuals could be found in contempt of court if what they publish creates a “substantial risk” of seriously prejudicing proceedings, with penalties including up to two years imprisonment.

The Attorney General also reminded the public that it is a criminal offence to identify complainants in the case, who are legally entitled to anonymity.

She urged social media users to take extreme care, warning that even sharing or reposting material could carry legal consequences.

The warning reflects growing concern around the influence of online commentary on high-profile criminal trials, particularly in cases where public interest is significant.

As the trial date approaches, attention is expected to increase, raising the risk that commentary – even if unintended – could interfere with the course of justice.

The case has already drawn significant public and political attention, given Donaldson’s former position as leader of the DUP and one of the most prominent figures in unionist politics.

However, the Attorney General’s intervention makes clear that the legal process must proceed without outside influence.

No findings of guilt have been made.

The warning underlines the seriousness of contempt of court laws and the risks posed by social media in high-profile cases in Northern Ireland/The North.