Jeremy Vine has pointed out what he described as a 'weird' element in the investigation into Ann Widdecombe's murder, after counter-terrorism police took over the case. During his Channel 5 show on Tuesday, July 14, Vine discussed the latest developments with panelists Angela Epstein and Marvyn Harrison.
Arrest of Wrong Suspect
Vine noted that police initially arrested a 26-year-old man who was later released, describing the suspect as white. 'They arrest the wrong guy, they say he's white. It's irrelevant because it's the wrong person,' Vine said. He then pointed out that police quickly moved to a main suspect, stating they were not looking for anyone else, which he considered ill-advised for a police force to say.
Shift to Terrorism Investigation
Vine highlighted that the case later took a turn when it was announced the murder was being treated as terrorism, with Communist literature found. 'It's almost that they've reversed into this case,' he said. The shift came after a 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder.
Racialising Crime
Harrison commented that the response to crime has led to a racialisation of criminals. 'People are more in uproar when a person of colour does crime, and the insinuation is that it's something to do with migration etcetera. It's made the whole conversation about crime really ugly,' he said. He added that there is now an urgency to know the nationality, religious beliefs, and motivations of suspects within 24 hours, creating a storm that should be avoided.
Vine's Criticism of Police Communication
Vine remarked: 'It is weird to hear on the bulletin he was white. You never previously would hear that. Why? Because what they need to say is this was not somebody who came off a small boat, frankly.' Epstein responded by suggesting police should simply say they are pursuing enquiries and will provide information when possible, without inflaming the situation.
