Joshua Kerry now faces terror charges, including allegations of a plot against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. Police confirmed the 28-year-old was charged on Friday. This new development follows his earlier arrest for the murder of Ann Widdecombe.
Counter-terrorism police stated that Mr. Kerry received one count of preparing terrorist acts. These alleged activities reportedly occurred between May 2024 and July 2026. Mr. Kerry, from Rotherham, is expected to appear in court on Wednesday regarding this serious charge.
He was previously charged in July with the murder of 78-year-old Ms. Widdecombe. She was a former Conservative minister and later a Reform UK spokeswoman. Ms. Widdecombe was discovered dead at her Haytor, Devon home on July 9, having sustained serious injuries.
Ms. Widdecombe had a distinguished career in public service. She represented Maidstone in Kent as a Conservative MP for 23 years. She also held ministerial positions in Sir John Major’s government during the 1990s. After leaving the Commons, she gained public recognition through appearances like BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed her concerns about the fresh allegations. She acknowledged the news would be “extremely concerning” for Mr. Farage and his family. Ms. Mahmood extended her “profound sympathies” to them.
She emphasised the gravity of such threats, stating, “an attack on anyone in politics is an attack on us all.” The Home Secretary also highlighted serious questions regarding security for public figures. She pledged to update Parliament on strengthened protections upon its return.
Meanwhile, a Reform UK party source commented on the situation. They stated Mr. Farage needed £5 million for his lifetime security. This comes as Mr. Farage faces a parliamentary standards watchdog probe. The inquiry concerns a £5 million gift from a billionaire donor, received before his return as an MP in 2024. Mr. Farage had previously stated the money was for his personal security needs.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, from Counter Terrorism Policing, described the investigation as “hugely intensive and complex.” She added that a dedicated team of detectives, analysts, and forensic experts led the inquiry. Their extensive work resulted in these very serious Joshua Kerry terror charges.
Frank Ferguson, of the Crown Prosecution Service’s Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, affirmed close collaboration. Prosecutors “worked closely” with police to bring the charge. They will continue to cooperate as the investigation progresses, he confirmed.
