A 28-year-old Rotherham man has been charged with the murder of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, the Crown Prosecution Service announced as police continue investigations into the attack in Devon.
Arrest and charge linked to Kimberworth Park address
Police arrested the suspect at his terraced house in the Kimberworth Park area of Rotherham at about 9pm on Saturday 11 July. He has been identified in court papers as Joshua Kerry, a former lift company employee who lived locally with a dog.
The Crown Prosecution Service’s Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division said it had authorised charges of murder following an investigation into the death of Ms Widdecombe, who was found seriously injured at her remote Dartmoor home and died the following day.
“We have decided to prosecute Joshua Kerry for murder following a police investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe in Haytor, Dartmoor.”
Frank Ferguson of the CPS emphasised that inquiries into the defendant’s motives were continuing, including examination of any potential political or terrorist connections. He also reminded the public that the defendant is entitled to a fair trial and warned against reporting or commentary that could prejudice proceedings.
Local background and community reaction
Neighbours in Kimberworth Park have been reported as having seen little of the man since last year, following the death of his father. One relative described him as polite and reserved. Local residents are left seeking answers as national and local agencies work through forensic and intelligence lines of enquiry.
- Arrest location: Kimberworth Park, Rotherham
- Suspect age: 28
- Victim: Ann Widdecombe, former MP, found injured in Haytor, Dartmoor
- Legal status: Charged with murder; due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court
The defendant is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. National police forces, the CPS and local officers continue to work on the case; further information will be released through official channels as it becomes available.
| Key date | Event |
|---|---|
| 8 July | Ms Widdecombe found injured at her home in Haytor |
| 9 July | Ms Widdecombe died of her injuries |
| 11 July | Arrest made at Kimberworth Park, Rotherham (about 9pm) |
InfoRadar will continue to follow developments and report verified updates relevant to Rotherham residents, including any court appearances and local policing statements.
