Counter-terrorism police investigating the murder of Ann Widdecombe have reopened an earlier investigation into an attempted burglary reported in April 2025, following a new line of inquiry. The Metropolitan Police and Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) London originally investigated the incident at an address in Greater London, but no arrests were made and the case was closed pending further leads.
Reopened inquiry and missed lead
After reopening the case, CTP London identified a line of inquiry that "may have been relevant" to the burglary but was "not identified and pursued by them at the time". This has prompted the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to investigate the conduct of a CTP London staff member over an allegation they "failed to identify and pursue a line of inquiry" related to the attempted burglary.
Joshua Kerry, 28, was charged with Widdecombe's murder on July 20. The murder investigation is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East, with support from CTP London and the Met.
Official statements and IOPC involvement
Vicki Evans, Senior National Co-ordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said: "As part of the ongoing investigation led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East into the murder of Ann Widdecombe, officers have re-opened an investigation into an incident reported to police last year." She added: "Given the nature of this matter and the significant public interest in the investigation into Ann Widdecombe's death, it was of critical importance for us to provide this update."
CTP London made a "mandatory conduct referral" to the IOPC on Friday. An IOPC spokesperson confirmed: "We can confirm that the IOPC has decided to independently investigate the conduct of a Counter Terrorism Policing London staff member following a referral received earlier today. The conduct relates to an allegation the individual failed to identify and pursue a line of enquiry relating to an attempted burglary reported in April 2025."
Impact and next steps
The reopening of the burglary probe underscores the complexity of the murder investigation and the scrutiny on police handling of prior incidents. The IOPC investigation is in its early stages, and no further details are available. The development adds to public interest in the case, as authorities work to ensure all relevant evidence is considered.
