Full Breakdown
Former MP’s Murder Suspect Charged with Terror Plot Against Nigel Farage
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Court Appearance and New Terrorism Charge
On October 7, Joshua Kerry, 28, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. The Rotherham-born defendant, already charged with the murder of former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe, was additionally charged with one count of preparation of terrorist acts under section 5(1)(a) of the Terrorism Act 2006. The charge covers alleged activity between 31 May 2024 and 8 July 2026, including online reconnaissance of “prominent people and institutions” and an attempt to gain entry to the home of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. Kerry confirmed his name and age but entered no plea. Chief magistrate Paul Goldspring remanded him in custody and ordered a transfer to the Old Bailey for a hearing on October 9.
Background to the Cases
Ann Widdecombe, 78, a former prisons minister who joined Reform UK in 2019, was found dead at her Devon home on July 8 after being struck 21 times on the head with a hammer. The murder investigation led to Kerry’s initial charge. Police also reopened a year-long probe into an alleged burglary-turned-terror plot at Farage’s south-London residence.
Timeline
- 31 May 2024 – Start of the alleged terrorist-related period.
- 19 April 2024 – One source reports Kerry attempted entry to Farage’s home.
- 20 April 2024 – Other sources state the attempted entry occurred on this date.
- April 2025 – Farage’s partner Laure Ferrari found damage to the front door and a bottle of lighter fluid on the porch.
- July 8 – Widdecombe’s murder.
- July 9 – Body discovered.
- October 7 – Kerry’s court appearance on the new terrorism charge.
- October 9 – Scheduled Old Bailey hearing.
- 8 July 2026 – End of the alleged activity period.
Data and Evidence
- Forensic analysis identified a 27 mm blade tool mark on the damaged doorframe at Farage’s home.
- A bottle of lighter fluid was recovered from the porch; DNA from Kerry was reportedly detected on the container.
- Surveillance footage tracked Kerry’s vehicle traveling from Rotherham to London on the day of the alleged attempt.
Official Statements & Responses
Prosecutor Kashif Malik described the door damage and lighter-fluid evidence as “the inference being that an attempt was made to gain entry to the house.” Chief magistrate Paul Goldspring noted that the terrorism charge is indictable only, necessitating referral to the Crown Court.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The inference being that an attempt was made to gain entry to the house,” — Prosecutor Kashif Malik
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact date of the alleged break-in attempt: the Independent cites 19 April, while the Manchester Evening News and Liverpool Echo cite 20 April. No motive has been provided, and any broader extremist affiliations remain undisclosed.
What’s Next
Kerry is scheduled to appear before the Old Bailey on October 9, where the terrorism charge will be heard alongside the murder case. The court’s decision on bail, trial dates, and any additional security measures for public figures will follow that hearing.