She was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday.
Police have issued a major update on their investigation into Ann Widdecombe’s murder (Image: Getty)
Police have explained why they aren’t releasing CCTV of their prime suspect as they continue to investigate the murder of Ann Widdecombe. Devon and Cornwall Police have revealed today (Saturday) that they believe Ms Widdecombe was attacked on Wednesday at about 12.30pm.
The force believes she was killed about 24 hours before she was found dead at her home by a carer on Thursday. Police have said they are looking for a “white male” but have not released any photos or video footage to help with the search.
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Explaining the decision, Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said: “I want to start with expressing my thanks to the local community and to the people who have come forward so far with their information. We have been working at pace on this investigation.
Police investigate death of former MP Ann Widdecombe at her Dartmoor Home (Image: Getty)
“Officers are making progress and are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry. At this time, we have made the active decision not to release further information, including descriptions of any potential suspects or releasing CCTV footage.
“Releasing such information prematurely could compromise ongoing inquiries and may prejudice future investigative opportunities.”
He said the decision not to disclose further details had been made on an “operational basis”, adding that the force will release information to the public when it is “appropriate and necessary”.
He added: “I would ask the public again, please do not to speculate on social media. If you have any relevant information and have not yet reported, please do so via the major incident public portal. Our thoughts remain with Ann Widdecombe’s family and friends at this sad time. They continue to be supported by specialist officers.”
A 26-year-old white British man who was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot on suspicion of the murder of Miss Widdecombe on Friday was released from custody on Saturday.
Devon and Cornwall Police previously said the case of her death is “not being treated as terrorism” and there is “no information” at this time to suggest it was a “politically motivated crime”.
On Saturday, UK leader Nigel Farage visited the village to pay tribute to Ms Widdecombe. Speaking to reporters, he said his political party has been going through its emails to check for patterns of abuse directed at Miss Widdecombe, but has not been able to find anything.
In a statement on social media, Mr Farage said the former MP and MEP’s death, and subsequent police murder investigation, was a “terrible reflection on modern Britain”.
In a video statement published on social media, he added: “And I do fear that for anybody in public life, or especially the political space, things have become even more dangerous today.”