Police are investigating a social media post allegedly made by a University of Aberdeen web developer describing the killing of Ann Widdecombe as 'good news'. The post, now deleted, was made after the former Tory minister was found dead in a pool of blood at her Dartmoor home on Thursday.
Details of the post
The post was allegedly written by Heather Herbert, a web developer at the University of Aberdeen. She reportedly wrote: 'Some good news for once. I hope it was an extremely painful death. I hope she was handcuffed to the bed as she screamed in agony.'
Police Scotland confirmed they are looking into the incident. A spokesperson said: 'We received reports on Saturday, July 11 relating to a post made online. Following further assessment, additional enquiries are being carried out.'
University response
Aberdeen University distanced itself from the post, stating it is reviewing the matter 'as a matter of priority' and that the comments do not represent the views of the university.
Herbert's defense
Ms Herbert told Metro she had received death threats after her post made headlines but refused to back down. She referenced Widdecombe's 2019 Oxford Union speech, where Widdecombe said: 'Nobody has the right to live their lives being protected from offence or from insults or from hurt feelings. It is an occupational hazard of living in society. And if you really can't take it become a hermit.'
Herbert also cited Widdecombe's 1996 policy as prisons minister, which allowed women prisoners to be shackled to hospital beds during labour. Widdecombe defended the bindings as necessary to prevent escape. Herbert said her comment about 'screaming in agony' referred to that policy.
Murder investigation
Counter-terrorism officers are interviewing a 28-year-old white British man arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday evening. He is held on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism, and suspicion of murder.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor said a TV appearance by Widdecombe on the morning of her death is a 'line of inquiry.' He stated: 'It is clear that this was a targeted attack. We are still working to understand the extent of any planning or preparation, and the motivation that sits behind that attack.'
The investigation is examining whether left-wing extremism or other political motives inspired the killing.
