Crown prosecutors have officially charged 28-year-old Joshua Kerry with the murder of former politician and TV personality Ann Widdecombe.
Kerry, hailing from Byrley Road in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was charged following an extensive inquiry initially handled by Devon and Cornwall Police before being taken over by Counter Terrorism Policing. He is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on July 21, 2026.
The 78-year-old former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson was discovered dead at her residence in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 9, 2026. Detectives believe Widdecombe suffered a targeted, lethal attack a day earlier, on July 8, before her body was found.
What We Know About the Investigation and Motive
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division authorized the murder charge after reviewing evidence gathered during a complex, multi-agency effort.
While Kerry has been formally charged with murder, counter-terrorism detectives continue to investigate whether ideological or political factors drove the crime.
Key facts emerging from the ongoing police investigation include:
- Travel and Attack Details: Investigators believe the suspect drove approximately 270 miles from South Yorkshire to Widdecombe’s home in Devon, inflicted catastrophic injuries, and drove back.
- Counter-Terrorism Involvement: The investigation was transferred to Counter Terrorism Policing after searches at the suspect's address uncovered evidence warranting closer inspection of a potential political motivation.
- Potential Lines of Inquiry: Detectives are examining whether hostility toward Widdecombe's outspoken conservative views, her role in the Reform UK party, or left-wing and single-issue activism played a role.
- Mental Health Assessment: Police are also assessing the suspect's background, including history related to mental health and neurodivergence.
- No Broader Cell: Authorities maintain that the suspect appears to have acted alone, with no current evidence suggesting a wider conspiracy or active threat to the public.
Legal Proceedings and Media Restrictions
Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor for the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, emphasized that formal criminal proceedings are active.
"Our prosecutors have worked closely with the police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court," Ferguson noted, adding a reminder that the defendant has the right to a fair trial.
Under UK contempt of court regulations, strict limits now apply to public reporting, commentary, and social media sharing that could prejudice the judicial process.
Public figures and citizens tracking the case should follow official statements from the Crown Prosecution Service and Devon and Cornwall Police for verified updates as court proceedings begin.
