The man suspected of murdering Ann Widdecombe has been charged with engaging in conduct in preparation of acts of terrorism against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
Joshua Kerry, 28, was charged on Friday with one count of preparation of terrorist acts, according to Counter Terror Police.
Kerry has been at the centre of “a hugely intensive and complex investigation” after the murder of the Reform UK spokeswoman and former Tory minister Widdecombe, 78.
Widdecombe died on 8 July after she was allegedly hit over the head with a hammer 21 times at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, a court previously heard.
Kerry was arrested on suspicion of murder on 11 July, and additionally on 13 July on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said the latest update “raises serious questions about the security of those in public life”.
An investigation into an alleged “firebombing” incident at Nigel Farage’s home last year was subsequently reopened in August, following Widdecombe’s death.
Senior national co-ordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, said: “We have been running a hugely intensive and complex investigation for some time.
“The charge announced today is a result of the tireless work of investigators across the Counter Terrorism Policing network.
“This investigation has been led by a dedicated team of detectives, analysts, and forensic experts, working on multiple lines of enquiry, which has resulted in this very serious charge.”
Earlier this year Farage said there had been an “arson attempt” made on his house in 2025 when he wasn’t at home.
“When I came back and opened the door I found the damage. Luckily it had burned itself out in the porch,” he told .
Farage said the police “did their best” but there were “no suspects”. The case was closed with no arrests.
Frank Ferguson, chief crown prosecutor of the Crown Prosecution Service’s special crime and counter terrorism division, said: “Having carefully reviewed the evidence we have made the decision to prosecute Joshua Kerry for engaging in conduct in preparation of terrorist acts.
“Our prosecutors have worked closely with police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court, and we will continue working with them as their investigation progresses.”
Mahmood responded to the latest news on X, writing: “I know the new charges made today will be extremely concerning. My profound sympathies are with Nigel Farage and his family.
“Let no one make any mistake: an attack on anyone in politics is an attack on us all.
“This case raises serious questions about the security of those in public life. We must use this as an opportunity to reset. Once parliament returns, I will update on our work to strengthen protections for those who choose to serve.”
Kerry was charged with Widdecombe’s murder on 20 July and appeared at Westminster magistrates’ court the following day.
Counter Terror Police confirmed: “A 28-year-old man has been charged with engaging in conduct in preparation of acts of terrorism, including against Nigel Farage MP.”
Kerry, of Byrley Road, South Yorkshire, was charged on Friday with one count of preparation of terrorist acts, contrary to section 5(1)(a) of the Terrorism Act 2006.
The charge relates to alleged activity between 31 May 2024 and 8 July 2026, according to police.
Kerry is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday October 7, the police said.
Since Widdecombe’s death, Reform UK has reportedly stepped up security for its eight MPs, paying for private round-the-clock protection.
Reform leader Nigel Farage complained earlier this year that his security had been cut back, and subsequently met Ravec – the Royal and VIP Executive Committee – the body responsible for the security of high-profile figures.