Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with the case
Police investigating the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe have today said they are working on the basis the incident was "not politically motivated" following the arrest of a suspect overnight.
Devon and Cornwall Police also said that they are not treating her death as being connected to terrorism, while issuing a public address this morning.
A 28-year-old white British man was arrested at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on suspicion of murder yesterday evening, with the victim's family informed.
The former Conservative MP, aged 78 when she died, was found at her home in Haytor, Devon, at around 11.40am on Thursday, having sustained serious injuries.
Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with the case.
"At this stage, there is nothing to suggest it was politically motivated," Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman told the media in Exeter.
Detectives urged people not to speculate about motive as it is “unhelpful” to investigations.
ACC Longman told reporters: “We are aware of online and public speculation, particularly with regards to motive.
“Again, I urge people not to share or engage with that speculation. It’s unhelpful.
“It doesn’t aid our investigation, and particularly, it’s distressing to the family and friends of Miss Widdecombe.
“We understand that there is a huge appetite for information, but progressing and protecting the integrity of our investigation is paramount now.
“We recognise there is still some way to go in this case, and the release of any information will be a decision made on an operational basis."
A cordon remains in place at Miss Widdecombe's home as officers continue enquiries at the scene, expected to continue over the next few days.
Police said the local community should also expect to see a heightened police presence in the coming weeks to provide reassurance.
"However, I wish to reassure you that we do not have any information to suggest that there is any wider threat to the public at this time", the ACC said.
Chief Constable James Vaughan said his force has “mounted an extraordinary response to a horrific murder of a very prominent public figure”, with support from colleagues and partners described as "second to none".
He said: “The operation has been running at a lightning pace for 48 hours and I am really pleased that we have a suspect firmly in custody and that will undergo some further work from us today. Well done to all. This is clearly British policing at its very best.”
The force has received in excess of 120 reports of information to assist in the investigation via the Major Incident Public Portal.
Representatives thanked those who have taken the time to contribute, and asked anyone who has not yet submitted any information that they hold to do so "as a priority".
ACC Longman added: “I would like to thank the local communities, the wider public and the media for their ongoing support and patience, and ask them to continue to support us in the next stage of this investigation.
“Any relevant information, images or footage can be reported via our Major Incident Public Portal, and you can follow the links and QR codes available on our website to achieve this.
“Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers.”
