A 28-year-old man has been charged with the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe, a case that blends political history with a shocking celebrity crime. Joshua Kerry, from Rotherham, is accused of killing the 78-year-old at her home in Haytor Vale, Devon, and is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court.
Who Was Ann Widdecombe?
Ann Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP for Maidstone and later represented the party as a prominent voice on law and order. She later became a well-known television personality, appearing on shows like Strictly Come Dancing and I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!. Her public life spanned decades, making her murder charge a matter of intense public interest.
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Details of the Murder Investigation
Devon and Cornwall police found Widdecombe’s body with serious injuries on July 9, 2025. They believe the attack occurred a day earlier. The case was later transferred to counter-terrorism policing south-east due to new evidence. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed the charge, noting that a potential political or terrorist motive is being explored.
Comparison of Timeline Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Wednesday, July 8 | Alleged attack at 12:30 PM |
| Thursday, July 9 | Body discovered at 11:40 AM |
| Monday, July 14 | Case transferred to counter-terrorism police |
| Tuesday, July 15 | Joshua Kerry charged and remanded |
Key Takeaways
- Joshua Kerry (28) charged with murder of Ann Widdecombe.
- Body found with serious injuries in Haytor Vale, Devon.
- Motive may involve political or terrorist links.
- Initial suspect from Newton Abbot released without charge.
- Prosecutors remind public not to prejudice fair trial.
FAQ
Who is accused of murdering Ann Widdecombe?
Joshua Kerry, a 28-year-old man from Rotherham, has been charged with the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe. He is due in court on Tuesday.
Why was the case transferred to counter-terrorism police?
New information and evidence emerged suggesting a potential political or terrorist connection, prompting the transfer from Devon and Cornwall police to the south-east counter-terrorism unit.
What was Ann Widdecombe known for besides politics?
She was a prominent TV personality, appearing on reality shows like Strictly Come Dancing and I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, as well as a regular commentator on political issues.
This celebrity murder case continues to develop. We will update this article as more information becomes available. For the latest on high-profile crime and celebrity news, stay tuned to GrandGoldman.com.