Jeffrey Donaldson is due to make his first court appearance in Northern Ireland on sexual offence charges amid a heavy security presence.
The Lagan Valley MP resigned as DUP leader the next day, causing a political earthquake in Northern Ireland. Under bail conditions Donaldson moved to his flat in London, while the co-accused was bailed to her home in County Down. The hearing is the first step in what could be a lengthy legal process – not helped by a backlog of cases in the courts – that will continue into next year. It is not clear if prosecutors are ready to formally press charges or whether Donaldson and his co-accused will be required to enter a plea. The magistrates court may refer the case to the crown court, which hears more serious cases.