Man charged with murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe

A man is due in court charged with the murder of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe. Laurence Taylor, head of UK Counter Terrorism Policing, emphasized that the investigation into the suspect, identified as Kerry, is continuing to determine his motivations and any broader activities he may have been involved in.

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I want to make it very clear that our investigation into [Kerry], determining his motivations and any wider activity he may have been involved in is continuing.

Taylor stated that understanding the 'why' behind the murder is a key part of the intensive and complex inquiries. He confirmed that investigators are not looking for any other individuals in connection with the incident. Counter-terrorism teams have gathered a substantial amount of information, leading to over 800 lines of inquiry.

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As with all murder investigations, understanding the 'why' is a key part of our enquiries.

The investigation has been led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East, with support from Devon and Cornwall Police. Frank Ferguson from the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) special crime and counter terrorism division confirmed that prosecutors have worked with police to establish sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to court. He stressed the importance of active proceedings and the defendant's right to a fair trial, urging against any reporting or commentary that could prejudice the legal process.

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Our prosecutors have worked closely with the police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court, and we will continue working with them as their investigation progresses.

Ann Widdecombe had a long career in politics, serving as the Conservative MP for Maidstone for 23 years and holding ministerial positions in the 1990s. After leaving Parliament, she gained public recognition through appearances on reality television shows, including 'Strictly Come Dancing' and 'Celebrity Big Brother.' She later represented South West England as a Brexit Party MEP and joined Reform UK as a spokesperson in 2023. Mourners gathered in Haytor Vale to remember the 78-year-old shortly after her death.

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We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial.