Terror charge for man accused of Ann Widdecombe murder

Joshua Kerry, 28, has been charged with preparing a terrorist act, an offence alleged to have occurred between May 31, 2024, and July 8, 2026. Kerry, who is from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, is also accused of the murder of Ann Widdecombe, 78. Ms Widdecombe was discovered deceased at her home near Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 8. A previous court hearing was informed that Ms Widdecombe sustained 21 blows to the head with a hammer.

Terrorism Investigation Review

The new charge follows a review by Counter-Terrorism Policing London into an alleged firebomb attack at the south London home of Nigel Farage. The Metropolitan Police had initially investigated this incident as an attempted burglary but had closed the case without making arrests. Counter-Terrorism Policing London later reviewed the investigation and identified a line of inquiry that had not been pursued at the time and which they considered may have been relevant. No further specifics regarding the terrorism allegation against Kerry have been released by police.

Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP and minister, had become a prominent supporter and spokeswoman for Reform UK in recent years and was an ally of Mr Farage. Her death prompted widespread tributes. Kerry appeared by video link from prison at an earlier hearing and was remanded in custody. He has not yet entered pleas to either the murder charge or the terrorism allegation.

Kerry is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday to face the terrorism charge. Proceedings concerning the murder accusation are continuing separately through the courts.