A man will appear in court today accused of murdering former MP Ann Widdecombe, in a case prosecutors say remains under active investigation as police examine possible motives.
Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, is due at Westminster Magistrates’ Court this morning charged with the murder of the Reform UK spokeswoman.
Mr Kerry has been remanded in custody. He was initially arrested on suspicion of murder on 11 July, two days after the 78-year-old was found dead at her home in Devon.
Police arrested him again two days later on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism, although he has not been charged with that offence.
Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor for 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 inquiries into the defendant’s motives are ongoing, including a potential political or terrorist connection.
“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.”
Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Devon
Ms Widdecombe entered Parliament as a Conservative MP in Kent in 1987, later serving as an MEP for the Brexit Party before becoming a spokeswoman for Reform UK.
Beyond Westminster and Brussels, she became a familiar face to many viewers through appearances on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
In the wake of her death, Prime Minister Andy Burnham urged a serious review of MPs’ safety. Laurence Taylor, Head of UK Counter Terrorism Policing, said officers are working with parliamentary officials to ensure politicians understand what protective measures are available.
Addressing reporters outside New Scotland Yard yesterday, Mr Taylor said: “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 (Ms Widdecombe) endured in her own home.
“We are 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.”
