Ex-DUP councillor guilty of rape

Former DUP Councillor William Wilkinson was convicted today of raping a woman in her home in Co Derry nearly two years ago.

Former DUP Councillor William Wilkinson was convicted today of raping a woman in her home in Co Derry nearly two years ago.

The 33-year-old Ballymena councillor was found guilty of the offence against the woman who was described as a “casual acquaintance”.

The jury of seven men and five women returned to Antrim Crown Court to resume their deliberations on a charge of rape.

They convicted Wilkinson with a majority of ten to two.

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Wilkinson, from Tully Road in Portglenone looked down and repeatedly shook his head when the verdict was delivered.

He was remanded in custody. Judge Geoffrey Miller adjourned sentencing until pre-sentence reports are ready next month.