Police issue major update on Ann Widdecombe murder probe as suspect charged | Politics | News
Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, is accused of murdering 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, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, will 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 spokesman was found dead at his home in Devon. On July 13, he was also arrested on suspicion of committing, preparing or instigating terrorist acts. Chief Constable Frank Ferguson of the CPS Special Crime and Counter-Terrorism Section said: “Following the police investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe in Haytor, Dartmoor, we decided to prosecute Joshua Kerry for murder. Police investigations into the defendant’s motives, including a potential political or terrorist connection, are ongoing.”
Ann Widdecombe was found dead in her home on 9 July (Image: Getty)
“Our prosecutors worked closely with police to determine that there was sufficient evidence for this case to proceed to trial, and we will continue to work with them as the investigation progresses.
“We remind all concerned that the trial against the defendant is active and the defendant has the right to a fair trial.
“It is vital that no news, comments or information is shared that could harm these operations in any way.”
Miss Widdecombe was first elected as a Conservative MP for Kent in 1987 and later became an MP for the Brexit Party and then a spokesperson for Reform UK.
He also rose to fame outside of politics after appearing in Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
Following his death, figures across the political spectrum paid tribute to him, with Home Affairs Minister Shabana Mahmood describing him as “one of those rare politicians who was bigger than politics”.
Counter Terrorism Police said “determining motivation, including any possible political motivation” remained an “active means” in the investigation into Ms Widdecombe’s murder.
Tributes paid near Mrs Widdecomb’s home (Image: Tom Wren / SWNS)
In a statement read outside New Scotland Yard, UK counter-terrorism police chief Laurence Taylor said: “Earlier today, detectives from the counter-terrorism police were informed that charges were now authorized following the presentation of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service.
“We have charged Joshua Kerry, a 28-year-old British national of Byrley Road, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, with murder.
“He remains in custody and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court tomorrow morning for his first hearing. We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.”
Deputy Commissioner Taylor added: “I would like to make clear that our investigation into this individual is ongoing and we have established his motivations and any wider activity he may have been involved in.
“Given the profile of Ann Widdecombe and the targeted nature of the attack, determining motivation, including any possible political motivation, remains an active avenue of investigation for our detectives and, as with all murder investigations, understanding why is an important part of our investigations.”
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Counter Terrorism Police said there were “more than 800 lines of inquiry” in the former Conservative MP’s murder investigation.
Deputy Commissioner Taylor said: “Over the past week our teams have collected a huge amount of information, leading to more than 800 lines of inquiry.
“Each of these needs to be considered carefully and comprehensively, and I ask that we be given time to do so.
“If the Counter Terrorism Police detect further crimes we will liaise with the Crown Prosecution Service and present evidence where appropriate.”
He added: “I know many people are understandably concerned for their own safety following this horrific attack, especially after hearing about the nature of the attack they suffered in their own home.
“We are working closely with the Speaker and relevant officials to ensure elected officials are aware of what we have to protect them.”
