Tom Pettifor

Dozens of women have contacted the Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police over concerns that Simon Levy may have targeted them. Police are considering a specialist team to assess the reports after Levy was convicted of murdering Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo and Sheryl Wilkins, raping another woman, and sexually assaulting 10 women on London public transport. Levy received a whole-life prison order, while police and prosecutors face criticism over earlier investigative failures, missed opportunities and decisions to grant bail. Authorities are reviewing possible additional victims and unsolved deaths and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

A 47-year-old woman was arrested after four men, aged 34 to 52, were stabbed on Endell Street in Covent Garden, apparently with scissors. Two victims remain in hospital with injuries considered neither life-threatening nor life-changing, while two have been discharged. Metropolitan Police officers, including armed officers from the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection unit, detained the woman, who is suspected of possessing an offensive weapon and assault. Police believe the incident was isolated and mental-health-related, and witnesses said the victims appeared to have been attacked at random.

Gary Glitter, whose real name is Paul Gadd, appeared by video link at Westminster Magistrates' Court facing four historical sexual-offence charges involving a girl allegedly abused between 1978 and 1981. Prosecutors said he gave the girl chocolate before repeatedly abusing her at his Kensington home. The complainant, now in her mid-50s, reported the allegations to police in January 2025. Glitter confirmed his identity during the hearing and raised difficulties hearing the proceedings.

Jo Early is campaigning for automatic removal of parental responsibility from parents who kill or seriously harm their children, after her former husband Gavin Gibbs was convicted of grievously injuring their infant son Charlie. Gibbs retained legal rights over their daughter Abi and sent her cards and gifts until she turned 18, which Abi says caused lasting confusion and distress. The campaign has backing from Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman and seeks changes through the Courts and Tribunals Bill or a new Parental Responsibility Act. The Ministry of Justice says it is reviewing parental-responsibility law to prevent it being misused by perpetrators.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating contact Bedfordshire Police had with Nothabo Zandile Tshuma and her daughters before they were found dead in Great Denham on July 6. Tshuma, 42, and her daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, five, died from blunt force trauma. Nothabo’s husband, Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, has been charged with three murders and arrested in Johannesburg after allegedly leaving the UK shortly before the bodies were discovered. Authorities are working to return him to Britain while the police watchdog examines the family’s prior contact with officers.

Linda Bowman condemned former Metropolitan Police detective Jason Grafham after a misconduct tribunal found that he kept and shared photographs of her daughter Sally Anne Bowman’s murdered body and made sexually inappropriate remarks to female colleagues. Bowman said the conduct had compounded her family’s grief. Grafham, who retired with a full pension shortly before the finding, was ruled to have had no policing reason to possess the images. The Metropolitan Police apologised, while the tribunal said he had failed to treat the victim with dignity. The case follows convictions of officers who shared images of murdered sisters Nicole Smallman and Bibaa Henry, amid record numbers of police dismissals.

Axel Rudakubana, who received a life sentence for murdering Alice da Silva Aguiar, Bebe King and Elsie Dot Stancombe and attempting to murder ten others during the 2024 Southport dance-class attack, has been transferred from HMP Belmarsh to Broadmoor secure psychiatric hospital. Victims' families and the Prison Officers' Association say the move appears to reward or facilitate manipulation of the system, while the Ministry of Justice says it followed an independent clinical assessment under the Mental Health Act and does not change his 52-year sentence. Lawyers representing surviving victims have urged attention to inadequate psychological support for affected children rather than continued publicity for Rudakubana. The transfer followed concerns about his violent behaviour and inability to be safely managed in prison.

A 28-year-old man, Joshua Kerry, appeared in court charged with murdering former MP Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead in her Devon home with severe head injuries. Prosecutors said she was attacked with a hammer and robbed after failing to appear for a scheduled video interview. Kerry was arrested in South Yorkshire and remanded into custody, with further hearings and a provisional trial date set. An inquest was opened but suspended pending the criminal proceedings. Political figures paid tribute to Widdecombe and called for renewed attention to MP safety.

Joshua Kerry, 28, has been charged with murdering former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead at her Devon home on July 9 after apparently being killed the previous day. Kerry was initially arrested on suspicion of murder and later held under terrorism legislation. Prosecutors said the murder charge followed a police investigation, while officers continue examining his motive and any possible political or terrorist connection. Counter Terrorism Policing said it was not seeking anyone else and had developed more than 800 lines of inquiry. Kerry is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, while an inquest into Widdecombe’s death is also due to open.

Regional organised crime units have arrested 1,393 suspected sexual predators, safeguarded 1,351 children, and secured significant jail sentences using tactics normally deployed against major gang figures. Recent convictions include those of Declan Sains and Rhys Meikle for child sexual offences. Senior police leaders say offenders increasingly exploit digital platforms and emphasise the importance of recognising and addressing vulnerability. ROCUs, working closely with the National Crime Agency, have expanded their national role, making thousands of arrests and seizing large quantities of drugs, firearms and ammunition over the past year.

A suspect, Joshua Kerry, has been arrested and questioned by counter-terrorism detectives over the killing of former MP Ann Widdecombe in her Devon home. Initially treated as a burglary, the case shifted after police rearrested Kerry on terrorism-related suspicion. Widdecombe was killed shortly before a scheduled TV appearance and remained undiscovered for nearly a day. Political leaders and officials, including the Home Secretary and the Commons Speaker, issued tributes highlighting her long political career and public presence. Counter Terrorism Policing has taken charge of the investigation while MPs are urged to avoid comments that could affect potential legal proceedings.

Police arrested a 28‑year‑old man from Rotherham on suspicion of murdering former MP and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe, later adding terrorism‑related suspicions as they investigate what authorities describe as a targeted attack with an unclear motive. The suspect’s uncle said he was shocked by the news, describing his nephew as quiet and gentle, while neighbours noted he had become reclusive following his father’s death. The case has prompted wider discussion about MP safety as police continue to examine circumstances surrounding the killing.

Counter Terrorism Policing says Ann Widdecombe’s death was a targeted attack, although it has not yet been formally declared a terrorist incident. A 28-year-old white British man remains detained for up to seven days on suspicion of murder and terrorism offences while detectives investigate possible planning, motivation and whether other political figures were at risk. The inquiry includes digital forensic work and searches in Rotherham. Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson, recorded an interview defending Nigel Farage about 20 minutes before police believe she was killed. Political leaders have paid tribute, called for a Commons memorial shield and urged a review of security arrangements for MPs.

Counter‑terrorism officers are investigating whether the suspect in the killing of Ann Widdecombe may have planned additional attacks on political figures. Police say the attack was targeted and involved some preparation, and they are exploring potential motives, including any foreign involvement. The suspect, arrested in Rotherham and later detained under terrorism legislation, can now be questioned for up to seven days. Widdecombe, a Reform UK spokeswoman and former Conservative MP, was found dead in her Devon home after missing scheduled media appearances. Detectives are examining CCTV evidence and interviewing associates while officials urge the public to avoid speculation as inquiries continue.

Counter Terrorism Policing South East has taken over the investigation into the death of former MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe after police said new information and evidence emerged. A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, initially arrested on suspicion of murder, was re-arrested on suspicion of commissioning, preparing or instigating acts of terrorism, allowing detention for up to 14 days without charge. Police have not disclosed the suspected motive and continue to appeal for information. The development prompted tributes in Parliament and renewed debate about the safety and security of politicians, while authorities urged the public not to speculate or prejudice a potential trial.

Police believe Ann Widdecombe was killed around 12.30pm on Wednesday but was not found for nearly 24 hours, giving the attacker a significant head start. Detectives are working on the theory that she may have disturbed a burglar, and a previously arrested man has been cleared. Officers are withholding CCTV and suspect details to protect the investigation, while a single white male suspect is being pursued. Community members expressed shock, and political figures including Keir Starmer, Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage offered tributes and urged calm as the manhunt continues.

Retired Metropolitan Police detective David McKelvey says investigators are likely to find DNA, fingerprints, footprints, blood or other forensic clues linking Ann Widdecombe’s killer to her home. He believes the murder may have resulted from a burglary gone wrong and says CCTV, phone data, vehicle records and ANPR footage could help identify the suspect. Police believe Widdecombe was attacked during a 29-minute period at her Dartmoor home, and a 26-year-old man arrested in Newton Abbot was later released. Devon and Cornwall Police are pursuing several lines of inquiry but have withheld suspect descriptions and CCTV footage to protect the investigation.

Police believe Ann Widdecombe was killed during a possible burglary at her Dartmoor home, with investigators narrowing the attack to a 29‑minute window and searching for a white male suspect. Former detective David McKelvey said the killer likely left DNA and other forensic evidence that will lead to an arrest. Officers are gathering CCTV, ANPR data and local intelligence while declining to release detailed suspect information to avoid compromising the investigation. A man arrested on suspicion of murder was released, and police continue exploring multiple lines of inquiry as they appeal for public information.

A retired fire training consultant who spent years investigating the unsolved 1986 axe murders of Brian Price and Susan Tetrault has presented a new report to the Metropolitan Police on the case’s 40th anniversary, prompting a renewed forensic review. The original suspect, Dean Alexander, who was acquitted in 1986, expressed sympathy for the victim’s family in messages but denies involvement and declined to meet. The article details the original investigation, the circumstances of the murders, and the family’s call for changes to ensure acquitted cases also receive periodic cold‑case reviews.

Police launched a murder investigation after former MP Ann Widdecombe was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Haytor, Devon. A 26-year-old man was arrested and later released with no further involvement, while officers say they remain open-minded and have no evidence of political motivation. Tributes from political leaders and public figures highlighted Widdecombe’s long career and influence, as neighbours described shock in the quiet community. Forensic work and inquiries continue as authorities seek information about a man seen near her home on the night of her death.

Police launched a murder investigation after former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe was found dead with serious injuries at her Devon home. A 26-year-old man was arrested nearby on suspicion of murder as officers examined CCTV and conducted extensive forensic searches. Political leaders and public figures issued tributes, while police stressed there is no evidence of a political motive. Widdecombe, a long-serving MP and later Reform UK spokeswoman, was remembered for her public service and strong character as authorities appealed for information to aid the investigation.

A 26-year-old British man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Haytor, Devon, aged 78. Police said they were keeping an open mind and had no information indicating that the death was politically motivated. Widdecombe's agent confirmed her death and asked that her family's privacy be respected.

Investigators will take a new DNA sample from serial killer Levi Bellfield as part of a review into the 1996 hammer murders of Lin and Megan Russell, for which Michael Stone was convicted. The Criminal Cases Review Commission is reassessing forensic evidence using advanced testing methods that could identify new DNA on items from the scene. Stone, who maintains his innocence, has already provided a fresh sample, while Bellfield has previously confessed and later retracted claims of responsibility. New forensic strategies highlight several key exhibits for testing, raising the possibility of clarifying whether Bellfield was involved in the killings.

A new DNA test for Michael Stone is being conducted by the Criminal Cases Review Commission as questions persist about his conviction for the 1996 murders of Lin and Megan Russell in Kent. The investigation highlights the lack of forensic evidence, inconsistencies in witness accounts, and heavy reliance on disputed prison confessions that formed the basis of Stone’s conviction. A retrial upheld the verdict despite key witnesses later retracting or being discredited. The CCRC is assessing whether there is a real possibility of the conviction being overturned three decades after the crime.

A renewed forensic review of the 1996 Russell murders is underway, with investigators collecting a new DNA sample from Michael Stone as experts recommend re-examining key exhibits, including the dog lead used during the attack. Forensic scientist Angela Gallop identified items that may hold DNA capable of indicating the attacker, while Stone’s legal team continues to argue his long‑maintained innocence. The Criminal Cases Review Commission is conducting an ongoing review that includes updated forensic strategies, alternative suspect comparisons, and reassessment of disputed evidence.

A former detective recounts how he uncovered inconsistencies that exposed Tracie Andrews’ false claim that her fiancé Lee Harvey was killed in a road rage attack, revealing evidence showing she committed the murder herself. Key factors included contradictory statements, bloodstain analysis, forensic findings, and a witness who saw Harvey’s car unpursued. Andrews was convicted, later confessed while insisting self-defence, and has since rebuilt her life, while the victim’s parents remain unconvinced by anything she says.

Police forces prepare for potential disorder after the government authorizes pubs to remain open until 5am for England’s World Cup match against Mexico. Former senior officer Andy Trotter warns that late notice, warm weather and alcohol heighten risks, prompting shifts to be reorganized nationwide. Prime Minister Keir Starmer supports the extended hours, while the British Beer and Pub Association welcomes the move. Football policing data shows a rise in incidents compared with previous tournaments, and officials caution that expanded licensing increases demands on policing.

Vickrum Digwa, sentenced to life with a minimum term of 21 years for murdering 18‑year‑old Henry Nowak, has applied to the Court of Appeal to challenge both his conviction and sentence. The solicitor general has separately referred the case to the same court seeking a longer sentence for being unduly lenient. Police body‑camera footage showing Henry being arrested while fatally wounded led to public outrage and an investigation into two officers for potential gross misconduct. Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Henry’s family, expressing deep sympathy as legal reviews proceed.

Two 15-year-old boys originally given youth rehabilitation orders for raping two girls in separate attacks in Fordingbridge were resentenced to four years’ detention after the Attorney General referred the case to the Court of Appeal. Lady Chief Justice Baroness Carr ruled the original sentences undervalued the victims’ vulnerability, the psychological harm caused, and the seriousness of the offences, which included filming the attacks. A third 14-year-old boy’s sentence was not changed due to his age and lesser involvement. Prosecutors argued the initial sentences were fundamentally flawed, while defence lawyers maintained they were appropriate and focused on rehabilitation.

Gary Glitter, also known as Paul Gadd, has been charged with four historic sexual offences involving a girl under 14, alleged to have occurred between 1978 and 1981 in West London. The Crown Prosecution Service approved charges including unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under 13 and multiple counts of indecent assault. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the allegations were first reported in January of the previous year and that Glitter had been interviewed in July. Prosecutors stated there is sufficient evidence for the case to proceed, with a court appearance scheduled for August 5 at Westminster magistrates court.

Testimony at the Old Bailey details a woman’s account of being violently assaulted by Simon Levy months before he allegedly murdered Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo and Sheryl Wilkins. The victim describes believing she would die during the attack and later identified Levy in an identity parade. Prosecutors outline Levy’s history of prior sexual assault convictions, while defence questioning challenges the timing of the woman’s report. Levy denies all charges, including two murders, rape, grievous bodily harm and non-fatal suffocation, and the trial continues.

Prosecutors at the Old Bailey detailed allegations that Simon Levy carried out a series of sexually motivated attacks in 2025, including the murders of Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo and Sheryl Wilkins, while already under investigation for an earlier killing. Evidence outlined includes DNA links, eyewitness identification, and descriptions of violent assaults against vulnerable women. Levy, who has prior sexual assault convictions, denies all charges as the case proceeds.

A British TikTok influencer, Brooke George, faces a potential death penalty in Dubai after allegedly killing fellow Briton Bill Treeby, who had prior convictions for assault and was awaiting trial on cocaine supply charges. George claims she acted in self‑defence after being attacked, stating she was later mistreated by authorities during her arrest. Advocacy group Detained in Dubai is urging that the case be treated as domestic abuse and that she be released on bail. UK authorities are in contact with local officials and supporting her family.

Body‑camera footage shows Vickrum Digwa falsely claiming self‑defence after fatally stabbing 18‑year‑old Henry Nowak in Southampton, leading police to arrest the dying victim and delay detecting his stab wounds for eight minutes. Prosecutors said Digwa fabricated accusations of racial abuse to conceal his actions, with the judge rejecting all claims of racism by the victim. The incident sparked violent protests, and Hampshire Constabulary is under investigation by the IOPC for its handling of the arrest.

Newly released police body‑camera footage shows officers took eight minutes to locate the stab wound that killed 18‑year‑old Henry Nowak after arresting him in Southampton. The transcript reveals growing panic as officers attempted CPR, initially unaware of his severe chest injury. Henry had been stabbed six times by Vickrum Digwa, who was later sentenced to life imprisonment. A judge noted officers acted in a difficult situation, while a pathologist confirmed the fatal wound was unsurvivable. Henry’s father expressed grief but urged against division, and Hampshire Police apologised as the Independent Office for Police Conduct continues its investigation.

Dutch authorities seized more than £60 million from MCL Netherlands, an offshore firm owned by Geoffrey Greenlees, a fugitive linked to the 1983 Brink’s-Mat gold robbery. Although investigators found no direct proof the funds originated from the heist, the seizure was made on grounds of money laundering. Much of the money was redirected to Australian tax authorities and the Dutch Treasury. Greenlees, who died in Manila after decades evading investigators, had long been suspected of helping launder half of the stolen bullion through complex offshore structures. The case resurfaces wider criminal networks tied to figures such as Kenneth Noye, Gordon Parry and Adam Hosein, alongside renewed attention brought by the BBC drama “The Gold.”

Arrests for ketamine-related offences in England and Wales more than doubled between 2021 and 2025 as use of the drug spread among young people, with some purchasing it online for as little as £1 a dose. Police forces across rural and urban areas reported sharp increases, reflecting wider availability and low cost. Addiction specialists and bereaved families highlighted severe health risks, including bladder damage, dependence and escalating deaths. Despite rising harm and growing youth misuse, the Home Office maintained ketamine’s Class B status after expert advice, prompting criticism from local officials who argue that stronger classification and a national awareness campaign are urgently needed.

A former detective revealed that a senior police officer attempted to shut down the investigation that ultimately identified Robert Napper as the killer of Rachel Nickell and Samantha and Jazmine Bisset. The inquiry had been hindered by multiple missed opportunities, including ignored reports, flawed forensic work and the dismissal of Napper as a suspect despite several warnings. Renewed forensic testing in the early 2000s finally linked Napper to Nickell’s murder, leading to his conviction in 2008. The Metropolitan Police issued an apology acknowledging significant investigative failures that allowed Napper to continue his attacks.

Police arrested a 44-year-old multi‑millionaire banker in west London on suspicion of attempted grievous bodily harm in connection with the 2017 Putney Bridge incident in which a jogger pushed a woman into the path of a bus. Detectives acted on new information after previously interviewing dozens of individuals and releasing earlier suspects without charge. The victim sustained minor injuries, and enquiries by the Metropolitan Police continue.

A Derbyshire police officer is under criminal investigation for allegedly using artificial intelligence to create evidential material in multiple cases, prompting the Crown Prosecution Service to review potentially affected prosecutions. The officer has been removed from frontline duties as the inquiry, which could involve charges of perverting the course of justice, proceeds. National policing leaders recently warned forces to suspend certain AI uses due to reliability concerns. The case follows earlier controversy in West Midlands Police after AI‑generated misinformation contributed to the chief constable’s early retirement.

Violent unrest erupted in Belfast after footage of a knife attack that left Stephen Ogilvie severely injured was shared online, prompting riots targeting migrants. Ogilvie’s family issued multiple appeals for calm, condemning the disorder and urging people not to use the incident to fuel hostility. Police and politicians echoed these calls while detailing the charges against suspect Hadi Alodid, a Sudanese national granted refugee status in the UK. Authorities highlighted heroic actions by bystanders who intervened and ongoing investigations into the attack as residents affected by arson and property destruction described their losses.

The Conservative Party received £112,500 in donations from West Ham co-owner David Sullivan, given years after his conviction for profiting from prostitution. Multiple women have since accused Sullivan of abusing his power, prompting inquiries by the Independent Football Regulator and previous safeguarding restrictions imposed by the Football Association. Sullivan denies the allegations and recently stepped down from his club roles to contest them. Records also show West Ham made additional donations to the Conservatives, including shortly before Liz Truss resigned as prime minister.

The Independent Football Regulator has begun a preliminary probe into allegations that West Ham co-owner David Sullivan exploited women for sex, following reports from the BBC and The Times involving seven accusers. Sullivan, who recently stepped down as joint-chairman but remains the club’s largest shareholder, denies all claims. Officials are seeking urgent information to evaluate his suitability under ownership rules, while the Metropolitan Police is investigating a report of alleged indecent images and sexual exploitation from the 1980s. Historical allegations dating back decades, including a prior conviction for profiting from London massage parlours, have resurfaced. Essex Police previously reviewed related claims but took no further action. The regulator’s findings could determine whether Sullivan is deemed fit to remain an owner.