Man Accused Of Murdering Ann Widdecombe Now Charged With Preparing Terror Acts, Including Against Nigel Farage — Here's What We Know

The man accused of murdering Ann Widdecombe has now been charged with preparing acts of terrorism, including against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.

What Happened

Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, was charged on Friday with one count of preparation of terrorist acts, BBC News reports. Sky News also reports the charge, which includes acts against Farage.

The charge relates to activity alleged to have taken place between May 2024 and July 2026.

Kerry was already charged in July with the murder of Widdecombe, 78. She was a former Conservative minister and later a Reform UK spokeswoman. According to the BBC, she was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on 9 July, having sustained serious injuries.

What Police And Prosecutors Said

Counter Terrorism Policing Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans said the charge was the result of a "hugely intensive and complex investigation", per the BBC. She said it was led by a team of detectives, analysts and forensic experts working on multiple lines of enquiry.

The Crown Prosecution Service said it had worked closely with police on the charge and will keep doing so as the investigation continues.

The Political Reaction

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she knew the new charge would be "extremely concerning" and offered her "profound sympathies" to Farage and his family.

She added: "an attack on anyone in politics is an attack on us all." She said the case "raises serious questions about the security of those in public life" and promised an update on strengthening protections once parliament returns.

A Reform UK source told the BBC: "This is exactly why Nigel needed £5m to protect his security for life."

For context, the BBC notes Farage is facing a parliamentary standards watchdog probe into a £5m gift from a billionaire donor, given before he returned as an MP in 2024. Farage has previously said the money was for his personal security.

What Happens Next

Kerry is due to appear in court over the terror charge on Wednesday, police said. The investigation is continuing. As with any case, the charges are allegations and Kerry is yet to face trial.

Why It Matters

The case puts the safety of people in public life back in focus. The Home Secretary has signalled that changes to protections for politicians are on the way, though no details have been set out yet.

How safe do you think people in public life are, and what should be done to protect them? Tell us in the comments.

Sources:

• BBC News
• Sky News