Joshua Kerry, already charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe, now faces a charge of preparing terrorist acts targeting Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.

Joshua Kerry, 28, has been charged with one count of preparation of terrorist acts following an investigation by counter-terrorism police. The charge, announced on Friday, alleges that Kerry engaged in activity targeting Reform UK leader Nigel Farage between May 2024 and July 2026. Kerry was previously charged in July with the murder of 78-year-old Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman, who was found dead at her home in Devon.

Investigation and legal proceedings

Counter Terrorism Policing stated the new charge resulted from a complex investigation involving detectives, analysts, and forensic experts. Kerry, who is from Rotherham, is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 7 October, to face the terror-related charge. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed it worked closely with police to authorize the prosecution.

Context of the charges

Ann Widdecombe was found dead on 8 July, with court proceedings previously noting she sustained serious injuries. Regarding the terror charge, police have been investigating potential threats against Nigel Farage, including a separate inquiry reopened in August into an alleged firebomb incident at his home. Farage has previously stated that an incendiary device was pushed through his letterbox, which he described as an arson attempt.

Official response

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the case as concerning and stated that an attack on a political figure is an attack on everyone. She indicated plans to update Parliament on efforts to strengthen protections for public figures. A Reform UK source linked the security concerns to Farage's previous public statements regarding the need for funding to ensure his personal safety.