University of Aberdeen worker charged by police over Ann Widdecombe death comments

A University of Aberdeen employee has been arrested and charged over social media comments about the death of Ann Widdecombe.

Heather Herbert was reported to police over an online post on Bluesky following the politician's death last week.

It was made ahead of the 78-year-old's death being announced as a suspected murder.

Police Scotland initially said "no criminality" had been established in relation to the social media post but then said "additional enquiries" were being carried out.

In an update on Thursday, a force spokesperson said: "We received reports on Saturday 11 July 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."

Herbert, a web developer at the University of Aberdeen, is also being investigated by the institution.

Professor Peter Edwards, principal and vice chancellor, previously said: "We are aware of the incident and the concerns that have been raised and are looking into the matter as a priority."

Ms Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Devon on Thursday 9 July.

Police believe the former Conservative minister turned Reform UK spokeswoman was attacked at around 12.30pm on the Wednesday - nearly 24 hours before her body was discovered with "serious injuries".

A 28-year-old white British male remains in custody following his arrest at the weekend.

He is being held on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism, as well as on suspicion of murder.

Herbert's Bluesky account currently shows as being "suspended".

Herbert, a transgender woman, stood for Scottish Labour to contest the Aberdeen Donside constituency in the 2021 Scottish parliament election, and for the Scottish Greens for Aberdeen City Council's Kincorth/Nigg/Cove ward in the 2022 local government election.

Sky News has tried to contact Herbert for comment.

(c) Sky News 2026: University of Aberdeen worker charged by police over Ann Widdecombe death comments