Ms Widdecombe, who served as an MP and later as a Reform UK spokesperson, was found dead at her house in Haytor on Dartmoor at around 11.40am on Thursday, July 9, having sustained serious injuries.
The former Conservative minister was discovered at her property in Haytor at around 11.40am on Thursday.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said a 28-year-old white British man was arrested on suspicion of murder in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, shortly after 9pm on Saturday evening.
He told reporters on Sunday: “At this point, there is still no information to suggest that this is a terrorism-related incident and at this point we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this murder.
“At this stage, there is nothing to suggest that it was politically motivated.”
He said detectives “remain open-minded about the potential motive” and stressed it is not believed there is any threat to the wider public.
He added: “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.”
Police believe she was attacked in her home at around 12.30pm the previous day.
Ms Widdecombe began her career as a Conservative MP in Kent in 1987.
She later served as an MEP for the Brexit Party and was a spokeswoman for Reform UK.
She appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, lasting until the semi-finals despite low scores from the judges, thanks to strong public support.
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Widdecombe also appeared on other shows such as Celebrity Big Brother, hosted Have I Got News For You and the 2002 documentary When Louis Met… Ann Widdecombe with Louis Theroux.
Her family has requested privacy as they grieve.
Information can also be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers, and a major incident public portal has also been set up.
