Ann Widdecombe Murder Allegedly Politically and Ideologically Motivated, Court Hears

Joshua Kerry, 28, appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday, 9 October 2026, where the court heard details of the allegations against him. He is accused of murdering Ms Widdecombe at her home in Devon on 8 July.

Ms Widdecombe, aged 78, died after prosecutors allege she was struck on the head 21 times with a hammer. Kerry was charged with her murder on 20 July.

He denies neither charge in the information supplied? His pleas were not reported in the hearing details provided.

Murder and Terrorism Charges Linked

Kerry faces a further charge of preparing an act of terrorism between 31 May 2024 and 8 July 2026, involving Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.

Prosecutors told the court that the murder and terrorism allegations form “a single course of conduct and are inextricably linked”. The two charges were formally joined during Friday's hearing, which Kerry attended by video link from HMP Belmarsh in south London.

The allegations include claims that Kerry researched potential targets and travelled to Mr Farage's home, allegedly attempting to gain entry.

Alleged Research Into Politicians

A separate hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court was told that Mr Farage's partner returned home on Sunday, 20 April 2025, to discover damage to the property's main front door.

Prosecutors said part of the wooden door frame was hanging off and a bottle of lighter fluid was found in the porch.

Kerry is also accused of researching politicians and other prominent figures during the period covered by the terrorism charge, including identifying the home addresses of Ms Widdecombe and Mr Farage.

These allegations form part of the prosecution case and have yet to be determined at trial.

Trial Scheduled for June 2027

Kerry, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was remanded in custody ahead of his trial, which is scheduled to begin on 8 June 2027. He is expected to appear in court again in January.

The case brings together allegations of murder and terrorism-related preparation, with prosecutors arguing that the two are connected.

As proceedings continue, the allegations remain matters for the court to determine.