Police launched a murder investigation in Devon after Ann Widdecombe, a former MP and prominent political figure, was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor. Devon and Cornwall Police said officers responded to a call from the ambulance service at approximately 11:40 BST on 9 July and found the 78-year-old dead inside. The circumstances were treated as suspicious, prompting a major police operation.
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson, who was leading the investigation, said the inquiry was progressing rapidly. Police initially sought a white male believed to be connected to the case. The Force Major Crime Investigation Team carried out extensive enquiries and stepped up its presence in the area to support the investigation and reassure residents.
Two days after Widdecombe was found dead, Joshua Kerry, 28, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was arrested. He has since been charged with her murder and appeared at the Old Bailey. The reported allegation is that Widdecombe was struck 21 times with a hammer. That remains an allegation and has not been established at trial. A provisional trial date has been set for 8 June 2027, with a plea and case-management hearing listed for 29 January.
Kerry also faces allegations connected to preparing terrorist acts, including an alleged attempted break-in at Nigel Farage’s home. South Yorkshire officers made the arrest with support from a counter-terrorism unit. Devon and Cornwall Police said there was no reason at that stage to believe Widdecombe’s death was terrorism-related. The courts will determine those allegations, as well as the murder charge.
Ann Widdecombe’s management described the period after her death as extremely distressing and expressed shock and devastation. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood urged restraint in public speculation, saying police must be allowed to carry out their work without interference. She also extended condolences to Widdecombe’s family and close associates.
Widdecombe served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone in Kent for 23 years. She later became a prominent Brexit supporter, first representing the Brexit Party as a Member of the European Parliament and then joining Reform UK as its spokesperson on immigration and justice. Nigel Farage paid tribute to her during a Reform-related appearance after her death.
The case has renewed attention to security for prominent public figures. Mahmood announced an urgent review of protective arrangements, led by former national security adviser Sir Stephen Lovegrove. The review is to consider protection for members of the Royal Family and political figures, including ministers, MPs and councillors. The reported policy response also includes dedicated police support for former MPs, former members of devolved legislatures, party leaders who are not MPs and political party spokespeople.
Widdecombe’s former home reportedly drew visitors seeking photographs and selfies after the killing. Reports said large wooden gates, secured with a chain and padlock, had been installed to deter unwanted visitors. A local resident said, “The Widdecombe’s Rest sign disappeared one day soon after the killing.” A requiem Mass for Widdecombe was scheduled at Buckfast Abbey in Devon.
A police press conference was scheduled for 16:30 BST to provide updates on the investigation. The coroner’s office for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay said preliminary inquiries were ongoing, while DCI Rosson urged anyone with information or relevant footage to come forward. She warned that speculation could hinder the inquiry and cause further distress to Widdecombe’s family and friends.
Murder investigations typically involve local police working with forensic teams to gather evidence, while the coroner’s office helps establish the circumstances of a death. The increased police presence in Dartmoor formed part of the major response to the case. Criminal proceedings are ongoing, and the scheduled trial date remains provisional.
