Ann Widdecombe was allegedly struck on the head with a hammer 21 times at her home in Devon, prosecutors stated in Westminster Magistrates' Court.
According to prosecutor Kashif Malik, Joshua Kerry arrived at Widdecombe's residence on July 8 in a red Vauxhall Corsa and entered through the front door. Prosecutors allege Kerry was inside the property for only two minutes before the attack. He is accused of hitting Widdecombe repeatedly with a hammer, tipping her from her chair, and then taking her wallet before leaving the premises.
Kerry, 28, from Rotherham in South Yorkshire, has been charged with Widdecombe's murder. He was remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey later on Tuesday.