The Ann Widdecombe murder case has taken a dramatic turn as a 28-year-old man, Joshua Kerry, has been charged with the killing of the former MP and Reform UK spokesperson. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed the charge, and Kerry is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday. Widdecombe's body was discovered with serious injuries at her home in Haytor Vale, Devon, on July 9, 2025, prompting a major police investigation.
Key Developments in the Ann Widdecombe Murder Case
Devon and Cornwall Police initially arrested a 26-year-old man from Newton Abbot, but he was later released without charge. The investigation was then transferred to the Counter-Terrorism Policing South East unit after new evidence emerged. Joshua Kerry, described as a white British national, was arrested in Rotherham and has now been formally charged.
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Frank Ferguson, chief crown prosecutor of the CPS Special Crime and Counter-Terrorism Division, stated that police inquiries into the defendant's motives are ongoing, including a potential political or terrorist connection. He emphasized that the defendant has the right to a fair trial and warned against prejudicial reporting.
Comparison of Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Ann Widdecombe, 78, former MP and Reform UK spokesperson |
| Defendant | Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham |
| Charge | Murder |
| Location of Death | Haytor Vale, Devon |
| Time of Attack | July 8, 2025, at 12:30 PM (approx.) |
| Body Discovered | July 9, 2025, at 11:40 AM |
| Initial Suspect | 26-year-old man from Newton Abbot (released) |
| Current Investigation Lead | Counter-Terrorism Policing South East |
Key Takeaways from the Case
- Ann Widdecombe, a prominent former MP and television personality, was found dead with serious injuries at her home.
- Joshua Kerry has been charged with murder and will appear in court soon.
- The investigation has a potential political or terrorist angle, given the involvement of counter-terrorism police.
- Police warn against publishing anything that could prejudice the trial.
- The case has drawn widespread media attention due to Widdecombe's high-profile career.
Background on Ann Widdecombe
Ann Widdecombe served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone and later as a member of the Reform UK party. She was also known for her appearances on reality TV shows like Strictly Come Dancing. Her death has shocked the nation, with many paying tribute to her decades of public service.
FAQ
Who has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe?
Joshua Kerry, a 28-year-old man from Rotherham, has been charged with her murder and is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court.
What was the motive behind the attack?
Police are investigating a potential political or terrorist connection, but no definite motive has been established yet. The investigation is ongoing.
Why did counter-terrorism police take over the case?
New information and evidence emerged that suggested a possible political or extremist link, prompting the transfer to the Counter-Terrorism Policing South East unit.
When and where was Ann Widdecombe's body found?
Her body was discovered at her home in Haytor Vale, Devon, on July 9, 2025, at 11:40 AM. She had suffered serious injuries.