Full Breakdown
Man Charged with Murder of Ann Widdecombe Also Accused of Terror Plot Against Nigel Farage
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Charges and Court Appearance
Joshua Kerry, 28, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on October 7. He is charged with the murder of former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe and with one count of preparing terrorist acts targeting Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. The terrorism charge covers alleged activity between May 31 2024 and July 8 2026, including online reconnaissance, travel to Farage’s residence and an attempted forced entry. Magistrate Paul Goldspring remanded Kerry in custody and sent the case to the Old Bailey for a hearing on October 9.
Background to the Murder and Terrorism Allegations
Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead in her Devon home on July 8 after being struck on the head with a hammer 21 times. Nigel Farage’s partner, Laure Ferrari, reported damage to the front door of their south-London home and a bottle of lighter fluid, suggesting an attempted fire-bomb attack.
Timeline
- May 31 2024 – July 8 2026 – Period cited in the terrorism charge.
- April 19 2025 – Kerry allegedly travelled to Farage’s address and tried to gain entry.
- April 20 2025 – Ferrari returned to find the door frame partially detached and lighter fluid left on the porch.
- April 28 2025 – Damage discovered (alternative report).
- July 8 – Widdecombe attacked.
- July 9 – Body discovered.
- October 7 – Kerry appeared in court.
- October 9 (scheduled) – Hearing at the Old Bailey.
Data & Statistics
- Defendant: Joshua Kerry, 28.
- Victim: Ann Widdecombe, 78.
- Weapon: Hammer; 21 blows recorded.
- Travel distance: ~200 miles from Rotherham to Farage’s London home.
- Forensic evidence: 27 mm single-bladed tool mark on the door frame; Kerry’s DNA on the lighter-fluid container.
Official Statements & Responses
Prosecutor Kashif Malik described the digital evidence as “online reconnaissance” of prominent people and linked the same research pattern to Widdecombe’s murder. Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring noted the terrorism charge is indictable only, requiring referral to the Crown Court. Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) said a reopened probe identified a line of inquiry “may have been relevant” but was not pursued earlier.
On-the-Ground Reports
Laure Ferrari reported a broken wooden door frame and a bottle of lighter fluid on the porch. Forensic analysis confirmed a tool mark consistent with a 27 mm blade, supporting the inference of an attempted break-in.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact date of the attempted entry at Farage’s home: April 19, April 20, or discovery on April 28. No further details have been released about the nature of the “online reconnaissance” or other intended targets.
Why It Matters
The combined murder and terrorism allegations against a single suspect highlight ongoing security concerns for UK politicians. The upcoming Crown Court hearing will test current counter-terrorism and investigative practices.