Prosecutor links Joshua Kerry case to hostility towards Reform UK

At a London hearing on October 9, prosecutors alleged an ideological motive in the case involving Ann Widdecombe’s killing and preparations for an attack on Nigel Farage.

Prosecutor Jonathan Polnay said 28-year-old Joshua Kerry held extreme left-wing or anti-establishment views and was particularly hostile towards Reform UK. The prosecution intends to argue that Kerry’s alleged actions against figures associated with the party were politically and ideologically connected.

According to prosecutors, Kerry researched politicians’ and other public figures’ home and office addresses from May 2024 until Ann Widdecombe’s death in July. Polnay said a list compiled by Kerry included Widdecombe and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. He did not identify any other people on the list.

Kerry is charged with murdering Widdecombe, a 78-year-old former minister and Reform UK figure, and preparing acts of terrorism. A separate allegation concerns an attempt to enter Farage’s home in April 2025. The Crown Prosecution Service previously confirmed the terrorism preparation charge, including alleged conduct directed against Farage.

Kerry attended the hearing by video link from prison. He was not asked to enter a plea and was remanded in custody until a further hearing in January, ahead of a trial in June. The account of his alleged motives and actions is the prosecution’s position. A court must determine his guilt.