Getty ImagesAn Aberdeen University employee has been charged over comments posted on social media about the death of Ann Widdecombe.
The former Conservative minister, and later Reform UK spokeswoman, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor at about 11.40am on July 9 after sustaining serious injuries.
A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was arrested on suspicion of murder and later re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Following the news of Widdecombe’s death, comments posted about the politician on social media app Bluesky on Friday sparked backlash.
Police Scotland initially evaluated the comments and “established no criminality”.
However, Heather Herbert, 50, a member of staff at Aberdeen University, has since been arrested and charged.
The comments were made before police revealed they were treating Widdecombe’s death as murder.
A report is due to be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
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.”
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