Joshua Kerry, 28, has been charged with preparing acts of terror directed at Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, according to counter-terrorism authorities. The Rotherham resident was already facing a murder charge regarding the death of Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman, earlier this summer.
The newly announced charge pertains to alleged activities occurring between May 2024 and July 2026. Police confirmed the development on Friday, following what Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans described as a “hugely intensive and complex investigation.” This effort involved a specialized team of forensic experts, detectives, and analysts pursuing numerous lines of inquiry. The charge relates to activity which is alleged to have taken place between May 2024 and July 2026.
Ann Widdecombe, 78, was discovered dead on July 9 at her home in Haytor, Devon, suffering from significant injuries. Widdecombe was a prominent political figure who served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone in Kent for 23 years. During the 1990s, she held several ministerial positions within Sir John Major’s government. Later in her career, she became well-known for her appearance on Strictly Come Dancing and eventually transitioned into a role as a spokesperson for Reform UK.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood acknowledged the severity of the news, noting that the charges would be “extremely concerning” to the public. She expressed her “profound sympathies” to Nigel Farage and his family as the investigation proceeds. Mahmood emphasized that an attack against any individual in the political sphere constitutes an attack on all of society.
“This case raises serious questions about the security of those in public life,” the Home Secretary stated. She added that once Parliament reconvenes, she intends to provide updates on measures aimed at strengthening protections for those serving in public office. The government views this as a vital opportunity to reset existing security protocols.
Frank Ferguson, representing the Crown Prosecution Service’s Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, confirmed that prosecutors have maintained close coordination with law enforcement throughout the inquiry. He indicated that this partnership would continue as the legal proceedings move forward.
Kerry is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday to face the terrorism-related charge. Authorities have maintained their commitment to the judicial process as the case against him continues to develop.
