A 28-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe

Joshua Kerry, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, is due to appear before Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday after being charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe.

Investigators are continuing to examine the motive behind the alleged killing, including whether there is any political or terrorist connection. The CPS said these lines of inquiry remain ongoing.

Kerry was first arrested on 11 July on suspicion of murder. Two days later, on 13 July, he was further arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.

Ann Widdecombe, 78, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on 9 July after suffering serious injuries.

Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, said detectives are continuing to investigate the motive due to Widdecombe's public profile and what he described as the targeted nature of the attack.

Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor for the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, confirmed the decision to charge Joshua Kerry with murder following the police investigation into Widdecombe's death.

Ferguson also reminded the public that criminal proceedings are now active and stressed that the defendant is entitled to a fair trial. He urged people not to publish, comment on or share information that could prejudice the case.

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