University of Aberdeen investigating employee who hoped Ann Widdecombe had 'extremely painful death'

A Scottish university is investigating an employee who posted online that they hoped Ann Widdecombe suffered "an extremely painful death".

Trans activist Heather Herbert made the comment before police announced the politician's death was being treated as a suspected murder.

In the post on Bluesky, Herbert shared Sky News' initial story on Ms Widdecombe's death and wrote: "And some good news for once. I hope it was an extremely painful death."

A further post added: "And I hope she was handcuffed to the bed as she screamed in agony."

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

A university spokesperson said: "The university is aware of social media posts made by a member of staff regarding the death of Ann Widdecombe and is reviewing this as a matter of priority.

"The comments that have been shared are entirely the individual's own and do not represent the views of the University of Aberdeen.

"Complaints into any member of staff are handled confidentially through our established processes."

Professor Peter Edwards, principal and vice chancellor, added: "Ann Widdecombe was a highly respected figure in both the Westminster and European parliaments.

"The University of Aberdeen does not tolerate violence or hateful behaviour in any form.

"We are aware of the incident and the concerns that have been raised and are looking into the matter as a priority."

Ms Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Devon on Thursday morning.

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

A 28-year-old white British male is in custody after being arrested on Saturday.

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

Police Scotland said it had received complaints about the post.

A force spokesperson said: "The information has been assessed and no criminality has been established."

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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.

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