A 58-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of stalking and possession of a knife after allegedly targeting Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey and his family. Police responded to multiple reports of harassment involving the suspect visiting both the family home and the MP’s constituency office, leading to his arrest earlier this month, reports BritPanorama.
Sir Ed, 59, expressed relief following the arrest, stating that the ordeal had been deeply troubling for him and his family. The suspect is reported to have become fixated on Sir Ed, approaching him and his loved ones several times. Law enforcement discovered the man carrying a knife at the time of his apprehension.
The leader, who resides in South West London with his wife Emily, their son John, 17, who has a disability, and his younger daughter Ellie, described the experience as a traumatic one. A source close to the family remarked on their gratitude towards the police for their swift action.
As leader of the Lib Dems since 2020, Sir Ed has balanced his political responsibilities amid personal challenges. His wife, Emily, a party councillor, has been living with multiple sclerosis since 2012. The couple also caregivers for their son, who was born with a neurological condition that impacts his communication skills.
A spokesperson for the Lib Dems emphasized that the priority remains the family’s safety, acknowledging the emotional toll the situation has taken. The suspect faces charges of stalking causing serious alarm or distress and possession of a knife.
