An Aberdeen University employee has been charged over social media posts about the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe. Heather Herbert, 50, was arrested and charged after comments about the 78-year-old were posted on social media app Bluesky on Friday, July 10, 2026.
Background of the Case
Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, last Thursday after sustaining serious injuries. Counter-terrorism police believe she was killed in a "targeted attack." A 28-year-old white British man arrested in South Yorkshire on Saturday remains in custody on suspicion of murder and terrorism offenses.
Police Scotland initially stated there was no criminality in relation to the comments but later confirmed the case was under investigation. Aberdeen University also said the incident was being probed internally.
Police Statement
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We received reports on Saturday, July 11, 2026, relating to a post made online. Following further assessment, a 50-year-old has been arrested and charged in connection. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal."
Heather Herbert has been charged, and a report is due to be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
Terrorism Investigation
Counter-terrorism police are investigating whether the suspect detained over Widdecombe's killing was driven by left-wing extremism and plotting additional violence against other prominent figures. Detectives revealed that one line of inquiry is whether the suspect in the alleged murder was targeting Reform UK personalities, which will form a "line of investigation."
Counter-terrorism police have taken control of the case following new evidence, but a senior officer emphasized the murder and terror investigations are currently running "in parallel."
