Ann Widdecombe – new police statement in full as they receive 120 reports on ‘murder’ | UK | News

Police have issued a new statement after receiving more than 120 tips about the suspected murder of Ann Widdecombe. Devon and Cornwall Police said after Ms Widdecombe was found dead and seriously injured at her home in Devon on Thursday morning, there was no information to suggest the incident was terrorism-related or politically motivated.

It was stated that the investigation into his death continued to develop in the last 24 hours. Shortly after 9pm on Saturday, July 11, a 28-year-old white British man was arrested at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on suspicion of the murder of the 78-year-old man. They are not looking for anyone else in connection with the murder at this time.

However, Devon and Cornwall Police are maintaining this investigation as a priority and detectives remain open-minded about any possible motive.

“The local community can also expect an increased police presence to provide reassurance in the coming weeks, but I can assure you that we do not have any information to suggest there is a wider threat to the public.

“We are grateful to our colleagues in South Yorkshire and they will continue to support us as our investigation continues.

“Over the past few days, we have received more than 120 reports of information to our Major Incident Public Portal. We thank those who have submitted their information to us and ask those who have not yet submitted relevant information to us to do so as a matter of priority.”

They urged the public not to speculate as it hinders the investigation and is upsetting to Ms Widdecombe’s friends and family.

The statement continued: “We are aware of online and public speculation, particularly regarding motive – once again I urge people not to share or engage in speculation.

“This is unhelpful and distressing for Ms Widdecombe’s friends and family, and is also potentially harmful to our investigation.

“We recognize there is a huge appetite for information, but it is crucial to move forward and maintain the integrity of our investigation.

“We recognize that there is still some way to go in this case and that the release of any information will continue to be a decision made on an operational basis.

“I would like to thank local communities, the public and the media for their ongoing support and patience and ask that they continue to support us through the next phase of our investigation.”

Any relevant information, images or images can be reported via the Major Incident Public Portal.