Joshua Kerry, 28, accused in the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe, has been charged with preparing terrorist acts, including an allegation of plotting against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. The terror charge covers alleged activity between May 31, 2024 and July 8, 2024, and is separate from the murder allegation related to Widdecombe's death on July 9. Police and prosecutors said the charge followed a "hugely intensive and complex" multi-disciplinary inquiry; Kerry is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court next Wednesday.
Suspect in Ann Widdecombe Murder Also Charged With Preparing Terror Acts, Allegedly Targeting Nigel Farage
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage speaks to the media at The Dam Bar And Grill on May 8, in St. Helens, England. - Ryan Jenkinson/Getty Images
British police announced on Friday that Joshua Kerry, 28, who is accused of killing former MP Ann Widdecombe, has been additionally charged with preparing terrorist acts — including an alleged plot targeting Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
Counter Terrorism Policing said Kerry was charged with one count of preparation of terrorist acts, alleging activity between May 31, 2024 and July 8, 2024. He also faces a separate charge in connection with the death of 78-year-old Widdecombe, who was found at her home in Haytor, Devon, on July 9.
Prosecutors previously told a court that Widdecombe had sustained multiple blunt-force injuries. Police and the Crown Prosecution Service said the new terror-related charge follows a "hugely intensive and complex" investigation led by detectives, analysts and forensic specialists.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans said the inquiry involved "multiple lines of enquiry" and that the team’s work "resulted in this very serious charge."
Chief Crown Prosecutor Frank Ferguson of the CPS’s Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division said prosecutors had "worked closely with police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court," and that they will continue to support the investigation.
Kerry is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London next Wednesday in relation to the terror charge. Police have not disclosed further operational details while the investigation continues.
Context
The killing of Ann Widdecombe has renewed concerns about threats and violence against public figures in Britain. Widdecombe, a long-serving Conservative MP who later worked with Reform UK, is the third British lawmaker to be murdered in recent years, after Jo Cox in 2016 and David Amess in 2021.
The investigation remains active and authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to contact Counter Terrorism Policing.
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