Heather Herbert, a web developer at the University of Aberdeen, has refused to delete controversial social media posts in which she expressed hope that former politician Ann Widdecombe died in agony. The posts, published on Bluesky, came before police confirmed a murder investigation into Widdecombe's death.
Backlash and Death Threats
Herbert faced immediate backlash after her comments went viral, receiving a wave of death threats. Despite this, she stated she has no intention of removing the posts. Speaking to the Metro, she said: "I'm not a hypocrite, the manner of her death does change how I feel about her. Obviously I don't want to see anyone murdered but I'm not sad she's dead."
Defending Her Comments
Herbert defended her remarks by referencing Widdecombe's own 2019 Oxford Union speech, where the politician stated: "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."
Addressing the backlash, Herbert added: "I do feel it's somewhat telling that the death threats are from people who have for the last few years called me a snowflake for being upset that they call me a peado or groomer or freak. It's almost like the campaign for free speech isn't really about free speech."
Context of the 'Handcuffed to the Bed' Comment
Herbert explained that her graphic remark about Widdecombe being "handcuffed to the bed" referenced Widdecombe's tenure as prisons minister. She said: "It's a story from when [Ann] was prisons minister. She apparently complained that a female inmate in labour wasn't chained to the bed in order to prevent her escape. It's disputed."
University Investigation
The University of Aberdeen has launched an urgent investigation into the incident. Principal and Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Edwards stated: "Ann Widdecombe was a highly respected figure in both the Westminster and European parliaments. The University of Aberdeen does not tolerate violence or hateful behaviour in any form. We are aware of the incident and the concerns that have been raised and are looking into the matter as a priority."
The institution also released a statement on Facebook, saying: "The university is aware of social media posts made by a member of staff regarding the death of Ann Widdecombe and is reviewing this as a matter of priority. The comments that have been shared are entirely the individual's own and do not represent the views of the University of Aberdeen. Complaints into any member of staff are handled confidentially through our established processes."
Murder Investigation
The online row follows the discovery of Widdecombe's body at her remote Dartmoor home. Concerns were raised when she stopped replying to texts and missed a scheduled interview. Detectives investigating the suspected murder have arrested a 28-year-old white British man in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. Counter-terror police have taken charge of the probe after "new information" came to light.
