Former governor warns of challenge protecting Jeffrey Donaldson in prison

Former Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson is being held at Maghaberry Prison after receiving a 15-year sentence for sexual offences against two women when they were children. A former prison governor says keeping him safe from attack could pose a major challenge for Northern Ireland’s prison service. [1]

Ian Acheson, who worked for HM Prison Service for about a decade, said prisoners convicted of sexual violence against children face particular hostility from other inmates. He said staff would also need to consider possible political or sectarian targeting because of Donaldson’s former DUP leadership and service in the Ulster Defence Regiment.

Acheson said Maghaberry had previously described its regime as integrated, allowing sex offenders to be managed safely among the wider prison population. But he argued that approach was not viable for Donaldson, and that keeping him isolated for years would also be unacceptable and might not be legal. He said Donaldson was entitled to protection, but not preferential treatment. [1]

Donaldson is reported to spend up to 18 hours a day in his cell. He is believed to be housed in Maghaberry’s Moyola Unit, which mainly accommodates prisoners with health issues and separates him from potential abuse or attack. Acheson said a transfer to another prison jurisdiction in the UK could be considered. [1]

Donaldson was convicted in June of 18 offences, including rape, and sentenced on Thursday to 11 years for offences against one victim and four years for offences against the other. He denied the charges and is seeking to appeal. Because the offences pre-date the Criminal Justice (Northern Ireland) Order 2008, he qualifies for 50% remission; if his appeal fails, he is due for release at the end of 2033, with the rest of his sentence served on licence in the community. He must sign the Sex Offenders Register for life. [1]