Ann Widdecombe Murder Suspect Accused of Terror Plot Against Nigel Farage

Joshua Kerry, the suspect accused of murdering Ann Widdecombe, is also alleged to have attempted to break into Nigel Farage's home as part of a terrorist plot one year prior, Westminster Magistrates Court heard.

Merritt, 28, faces a charge of preparation of terrorist acts, with prosecutors alleging he conducted online reconnaissance on prominent individuals and institutions between May 31, 2024, and July 8, 2026, including researching Farage's address.

According to prosecutor Kashif Malik, Kerry spent hours outside Farage's home on April 20, 2025, before fleeing. A bottle of lighter fluid was discovered in the porch by Farage's partner, Laure Ferrari. Forensic examination of the scene revealed a toolmark on the door frame consistent with a 27mm single-bladed edge, suggesting an attempted forced entry.

Police traced a red Vauxhall Corsa, suspected to belong to Kerry, which had traveled from his home in Rotherham to Farage's street, remaining parked for several hours before returning to South Yorkshire.

Kerry has not yet entered a plea to the charge of preparation of terrorist acts. He is also accused of using the same vehicle to carry out the fatal attack on Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman. The 78-year-old died on July 8 after being struck with a hammer multiple times at her home in Haytor, Devon. Kerry was charged with her murder in July.

In August, Counter Terrorism Policing reopened a year-long investigation into an alleged firebomb attack at Farage's south London home. The incident had initially been treated as an attempted burglary, with no arrests made before the case was closed. The reopening led officers to identify a line of inquiry not previously pursued.

Kerry, who appeared in court wearing a grey tracksuit, spoke only to confirm his identity. He was remanded in custody pending a pre-trial hearing at the Old Bailey on Friday.