Murder accused remanded in custody as counter-terrorism detectives continue to investigate possible motive
FORMER Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe was allegedly struck 21 times on the head with a hammer during an attack at her Devon home, a court has heard.
Joshua Kerry, 28, of Byrley Road, Rotherham, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court charged with murdering the 78-year-old former MP and broadcaster.
Prosecutors told the court that a vehicle arrived at Miss Widdecombe’s home near Haytor on Dartmoor before the alleged attack.
It was claimed that she had been eating lunch when she was repeatedly struck on the head with a hammer and knocked from her chair.
The court was also told that Miss Widdecombe’s wallet was allegedly removed from her handbag before the attacker left the property.
She was found dead inside her home the following day after concerns were raised when she could not be contacted.
A provisional cause of death was given as blunt-force injury to the head.
Kerry spoke during the brief hearing to confirm his name, date of birth and address. He was remanded in custody ahead of further court proceedings.
The investigation was initially led by Devon and Cornwall Police before Counter Terrorism Policing became involved.
Detectives are continuing to investigate the possible motive for the killing, including whether there may have been a political or terrorist connection.
Police have said they are not currently seeking anyone else in connection with Miss Widdecombe’s death.
Miss Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP between 1987 and 2010 and held ministerial positions in John Major’s government. She later became a television and radio personality and returned to frontline politics as a Brexit Party MEP.
Court proceedings are active. Kerry has not entered a plea and is entitled to a fair trial.
