IOPC probes Counter Terrorism officer over missed burglary link to Ann Widdecombe murder

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has begun an independent investigation into a Counter Terrorism Policing London staff member. The allegation is that the individual failed to identify and pursue a line of inquiry related to an attempted burglary reported in April 2025. The case was closed at the time but has since been reopened.

Counter Terrorism Policing London made a mandatory conduct referral to the IOPC on 26 July. The IOPC confirmed the decision to investigate but provided no further details, stating the inquiry is at an early stage. The Metropolitan Police and Counter Terrorism Policing were both involved in the original investigation.

Connection to Ann Widdecombe murder

The attempted burglary case was reopened following the murder of Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP and television personality. Joshua Kerry, 28, was charged with her murder on 20 July. The reopened investigation has identified a line of inquiry that may have been relevant but was not pursued during the initial probe.

Vicki Evans, senior national co-ordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said the matter is of critical importance given the public interest in Widdecombe’s death. She stated that providing an update was necessary due to the nature of the investigation. The case is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East.

What happens next

The IOPC will conduct its investigation independently. No timeline has been provided for its completion. Counter Terrorism Policing London has been notified of the decision but has not commented further. The outcome of the IOPC investigation will determine whether disciplinary action is taken against the staff member involved.