Former Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for child sex abuse, including one count of rape.

The 63-year-old stood with his hands clasped before him in the dock at Newry Crown Court as Judge Paul Ramsey imposed the sentence. The judge described Donaldson's fall as a "catastrophic descent into disgrace".

Donaldson received 11 years for offences against Victim B and a further four years for crimes against Victim A. The terms will run consecutively, producing the full 15-year sentence rather than the more convenient alternative.

He must also remain on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Why the judge imposed consecutive sentences

A jury convicted Donaldson in June of 18 sexual offences committed against two women when they were children. He is seeking to appeal those convictions.

Judge Ramsey identified several aggravating factors, including the prolonged pattern of abuse, which continued over many years. He also considered the victims' young ages and the significant age difference between Donaldson and each child.

The judge declined to treat Donaldson's lack of previous convictions as a mitigating factor. He also explained that defendants who contest charges do not receive the sentencing reduction available to those who plead guilty.

Donaldson denied the allegations during police interviews, at trial and in discussions with a probation officer. According to Ramsey, those denials had continued without any acknowledgment of the harm caused.

"He has doubled-down in his denials," the judge said.

Judge condemns absence of remorse

Ramsey said Donaldson had offered neither an apology nor any sign of regret to his victims.

"There has not been, and doubtless will not be, one word of regret, apology or shame from this man to at least provide his victims with some crumb of comfort," he said.

The remarks underlined the court's view that Donaldson had shown no remorse throughout the investigation, trial or sentencing process.

Donaldson had been held at Maghaberry Prison since his conviction in June. After Thursday's sentencing hearing, he was returned there to begin serving the 15-year term while pursuing an appeal.