Former minister Ann Widdecombe found dead; suspect charged with murder

Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her Haytor home on 9 July after sustaining serious injuries, police and prosecutors said; Joshua Kerry of Rotherham was arrested on 11 July on suspicion of murder and later also on suspicion of terrorism-related offences, and is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, Counter Terrorism Policing stated.

Counter Terrorism Policing said investigators are continuing to determine Kerry’s motivation, including any possible political motivation, and described the inquiry as particularly intensive and complex.

Authorities added that counter terrorism teams have gathered a large amount of information, generating more than 800 lines of enquiry, and that investigators are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.

The investigation is led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East with support from Devon and Cornwall Police. The Crown Prosecution Service’s special crime and counter terrorism division confirmed prosecutors have worked with police and established there is sufficient evidence to bring the case to court.

Frank Ferguson, chief crown prosecutor of the CPS division, reminded the public that proceedings are active, the defendant has the right to a fair trial, and warned against reporting or sharing information that could prejudice the case.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

Official statements indicate a murder investigation with parallel counter-terrorism lines of inquiry, an arrest and additional terrorism-related suspicion, a large volume of evidence collected and coordination between counter-terrorism police, local forces and the CPS.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

• Ann Widdecombe, 78, found dead at her Haytor home on 9 July after serious injuries.
• Joshua Kerry, from Rotherham, arrested on 11 July for murder and on 13 July on suspicion of terrorism offences.
• Investigation led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East with support from Devon and Cornwall Police; over 800 lines of enquiry reported.