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Former party leader convicted of 18 historical sex offences against two children
A jury at Newry Crown Court convicted a 63-year-old man of one count of rape, 13 counts of indecent assault and four counts of gross indecency. The offences occurred between 1985 and 2008. His wife, 60, was found to have aided and abetted the offences following a trial of the facts.
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A jury at Newry Crown Court in Northern Ireland convicted a 63-year-old man of 18 historical sex offences against two women when they were children. The jury found him guilty of one count of rape, 13 counts of indecent assault and four counts of gross indecency.
The offences took place between 1985 and 2008. He had pleaded not guilty and spent two days giving evidence in which he denied the allegations.
Wife's role His wife, 60, was found to have committed the acts relating to aiding and abetting the offences after a trial of the facts. She denied several charges of aiding and abetting. The trial of the facts was held on mental health grounds and cannot result in a criminal conviction. The two complainants, who must remain anonymous, gave evidence that they were abused as children.
Background and next steps He was arrested on March 28, 2024, and charged with rape and other sexual offences. His wife was also charged with aiding and abetting. He stepped down from his leadership position the following day. The jury deliberated for 10 hours before returning its verdicts.
Judge Paul Ramsey thanked the jury and stated that the man would be subject to a lengthy sentence of imprisonment. He will remain in custody. A review hearing is scheduled for September 11, followed by a sentencing hearing later in the month.
