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.
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.”
Who is Joshua Kerry, the accused in the Ann Widdecombe murder case?
Joshua Kerry, 28, is from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, and has been charged in connection with the death of former MP and broadcaster Ann Widdecombe. Public details about his personal life remain limited, but reports describe him as a private individual who lived a quiet life away from public attention.
Kerry is reported to have grown up in Rotherham with his family. Reports state that he is one of three brothers, with his siblings later moving away from the area. His father, Paul Yates, was described as a former research engineer in the steel industry, while his mother was reported to have worked as a teaching assistant.
He is believed to have cared for his father before his death and later continued living in the family home in Rotherham. Reports suggest he previously worked for a lift company but became less involved in employment after his father’s death.
Neighbours described Kerry as someone who kept a low profile and was rarely seen in the community. As of now, there are no publicly confirmed details about his marriage, partner, children, education history, or net worth.
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.
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.
