Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe (Image: Collect)
A 28-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe, the Crown Prosecution Service said. Joshua Kerry, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (July 20).
He was first arrested on suspicion of murder on July 11, two days after the 78-year-old Reform UK spokeswoman was found dead at her home in Devon. On July 13, he was additionally arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism. Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division said: “We have decided to prosecute Joshua Kerry for murder following a police investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe in Haytor, Dartmoor. Police enquiries into the defendant’s motives are ongoing, including a potential political or terrorist connection.
Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her home on July 9 (Image: Getty)
“Our prosecutors have worked closely with the police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court, and we will continue working with them as their investigation progresses.
“We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial.
“It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information which could in anyway prejudice these proceedings.”
Miss Widdecombe was first elected as a Conservative MP in Kent in 1987, and went on to become an MEP for the Brexit Party and then a spokeswoman for Reform UK.
She also found fame outside politics after starring in Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
Tributes were paid to her by figures across the political spectrum after her death, with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood calling her “one of those rare politicians who was bigger than politics”.
Counter Terrorism Policing said “determining the motivation, including any possible political motivation” remains “an active avenue” in the murder investigation of Miss Widdecombe.
Tributes were left near Miss Widdecomb’s home (Image: Tom Wren / SWNS)
In a statement read outside New Scotland Yard, head of UK counter-terrorism policing Laurence Taylor said: “Earlier today, detectives from counter-terrorism policing were informed that following a submission of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service, charges have now been authorised.
“We have charged Joshua Kerry, a 28-year-old British national of Byrley Road, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, with her murder.
“He is still in custody and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court tomorrow morning for his first hearing. It remains the case that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.”
Assistant Commissioner Taylor added: “I want to make it very clear that our investigation into this individual, determining his motivations and any wider activity he may have been involved in, is continuing.
“Given Ann Widdecombe’s profile and the targeted nature of the attack, determining the motivation, including any possible political motivation, remains an active avenue of investigation for our detectives, and as with all murder investigations, understanding the why is a key part of our inquiries.”
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Counter Terrorism Policing said there were “over 800 lines of inquiry” in the murder investigation of the former Conservative MP.
Assistant Commissioner Taylor said: “Over the last week, our teams have gathered a huge amount of information, leading to over 800 lines of inquiry.
“Each of those needs assessing carefully and thoroughly, and I ask that we are given the time to do that.
“Should Counter Terrorism Policing identify any further offences, we will liaise with the Crown Prosecution Service and submit evidence where appropriate.”
He added: “I know many have been understandably concerned about their own safety after this horrendous attack, particularly after hearing about the nature of the attack she endured in her own home.
“We’re working closely with the Speaker of the House and the relevant authorities to ensure elected officials are aware of what we have in place to protect them.”