A 28-year-old man appeared in Westminster Magistrates’ Court charged with the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe, 78, whose body was discovered at her Devon bungalow on July 8.
Prosecutors allege the suspect, identified as Joshua Kerry, entered the property while Widdecombe was having lunch and struck her 21 times with a hammer.
During the brief hearing Kerry did not enter a plea, and the court record listed his name, date of birth and address.
Surveillance footage reportedly placed Kerry at the scene shortly before the attack, showing him arriving from Rotherham, entering through the front door, remaining inside for approximately two minutes, and departing with Widdecombe’s wallet.
Concern for Widdecombe’s welfare arose after she missed a scheduled online interview shortly before 1 p.m., prompting a welfare check.
The following morning her gardener discovered her lying on the kitchen floor; emergency services pronounced her dead at the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the homicide while the suspect remains in custody.
