LONDON: Former Conservative MP and broadcaster Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her bungalow in Haytor, Dartmoor, on July 9, having been attacked the preceding day. Police later described the incident as a “targeted attack” and launched a major murder investigation. As per the latest updates, Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has been charged with murder in connection with her death.
Ann Widdecombe Murder Breaking News: What exactly happened to Ann Widdecombe?
Widdecombe is believed to have been attacked on July 8 shortly after she recorded an interview that would become her last for a Christian radio station. Widdecombe didn’t show up for a planned appearance on Channel 5, which raised concerns amongst colleagues, who sent messages to check in. A producer messaged her saying: “Hi Ann, is everything ok?” but there was no response. Later, her domestic assistant found her body at her Haytor bungalows the next day, the police say.
How was Joshua Kerry identified and charged?
Kerry was arrested in Rotherham, nearly 300 miles from Widdecombe’s home, after detectives reviewed CCTV footage and carried out forensic examinations of electronic devices. He was initially arrested on suspicion of murder before being charged with one count of murder by the Crown Prosecution Service. Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, said, “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.”
How did police investigate the case?
The investigation later involved Counter Terrorism officers after forensic searches of electronic devices. Speaking outside New Scotland Yard, officers described the inquiry as “extremely complex” and confirmed they were not seeking anyone else. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also said the suspect “was not known” to the Prevent programme.
Ann Widdecombe Murder Breaking News: What is the latest update in the case?
Joshua Kerry will now go on trial at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. He is due to attend for his first hearing. Police are continuing their efforts to ascertain if there may have been a political or terrorist motive behind the alleged attack, while stressing that the investigation remains ongoing. Kerry has been charged but has not been convicted.
(This is a developing story; more updates are yet to be added.)
