Devon and Cornwall Police have declined to release CCTV footage or provide a description of potential suspects in the investigation into the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe, citing the need to protect the integrity of the ongoing probe.
Police Decision on Information Release
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman issued an update on Saturday, stating that an "active decision" had been made not to release further details at this stage. He emphasised that doing so could "compromise ongoing enquiries" and potentially "prejudice future investigative opportunities."
"Releasing such information prematurely could compromise ongoing enquiries and may prejudice future investigative opportunities," Longman said. "The decision not to disclose further details at this time is made on an operational basis. We will release information to the public when it is appropriate and necessary, in order to support the investigation."
Timeline of Events
Officers have been searching hedgerows around Widdecombe's home in Devon after she was found dead with serious injuries on Thursday morning. Police now believe she was attacked the previous day at around 12:30 PM, approximately 24 hours before her body was discovered.
Widdecombe, a former Tory prison minister and MP, had reportedly sent a last message just 11 minutes before the attack. The investigation continues as authorities appeal for information from the public.
Appeal to the Public
Longman urged the public not to speculate on social media and to report any relevant information via the major incident public portal. "If you have any relevant information and have not yet reported, please do so via the major incident public portal," he said. "Our thoughts remain with Ann Widdecombe’s family and friends at this sad time. They continue to be supported by specialist officers."
