Ann Widdecombe Death: Man, 26, Arrested As Police Appeal For Information

Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed this evening that they have arrested a suspect in relation to the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe.

They say that a 26-year-old man was arrested on Friday afternoon (10 July) at an address in Newton Abbot.

The suspect has been described by Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman (who is currently leading a police conference in relation to the crime at time of writing) as a white British national, who is being held in police custody while enquires continue.

The ex-prisons minister, who was 78, was found dead at her home in Devon.

Officers were called to Widdecombe’s home at around 11:40 BST yesterday, Thursday 9 July, and she was found deceased in the property with “serious injuries”.

Police have said that the incident is not being treated as terrorism and that it is “too early” to comment on whether the suspect was known to Widdecombe.

In response to a question from the media, Longman stated police have currently “got no information to believe that that is a politically motivated crime.”

They added: “A cordon remains in place at the property while specialist officers continue forensic examinations. There are road closures in place around the scene.”

Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said: “I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us.

“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the vicinity of Haytor Vale, Haytor, or anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage which could assist with our investigation.”

A dedicated portal can now be found on the Devon and Cornwall Police website where members of the public can submit footage, images and information they may have in relation to the investigation.

This is a developing story, please check back for updates.

Listen to Commons People, the podcast that makes politics easy. Every week, Kevin Schofield and Kate Nicholson unpack the week’s biggest stories to keep you informed. Join us for straightforward analysis of what’s going on at Westminster.