Man charged with terror plot against Nigel Farage and Widdecombe murder

Joshua Kerry, 28, has been charged with preparing to commit acts of terrorism, with alleged activity between May 2024 and July 2026 directed towards Nigel Farage. Kerry is also accused of the murder of Ann Widdecombe, which occurred on July 8. Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) has been leading the investigation into these matters.

Terror Plot Allegations

The charge of preparation of terrorist acts relates to alleged activity between 31 May 2024 and 8 July 2026. CTP stated that this investigation has been complex and intensive, involving a dedicated team of detectives, analysts, and forensic experts. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans of CTP described the charge as a result of tireless work across the Counter Terrorism Policing network.

Murder Accusation

Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman, died on July 8. A court previously heard that she was struck with a hammer multiple times at her home in Haytor, Devon. Kerry, who is from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, is accused of her murder.

Previous Investigation

The current investigation has also examined a previous incident involving an alleged firebomb attack at Nigel Farage's south London home in August. CTP London had reopened a probe into this incident. While initially investigated by the Metropolitan Police and CTP London as an attempted burglary with no arrests made, CTP London later identified a line of inquiry that may have been relevant but had not been pursued at the time. Mr Farage had described the incident, which occurred early last year, as an "outright arson attempt" after a lit incendiary device was pushed through his letterbox.

Court Appearance

Joshua Kerry is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday. The Crown Prosecution Service's Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division has confirmed the decision to prosecute Kerry for engaging in conduct in preparation of terrorist acts, stating there is sufficient evidence to proceed to court.