Gavin Plumb, the man who plotted to kidnap ITV presenter Holly Willoughby, has been caught with pictures of her in his prison cell. The collection of images was discovered by prison officers hidden under a mattress at HMP Long Lartin in Worcestershire.
Ongoing Obsession
According to a source, Plumb gathered the images from magazines and remains obsessed with Willoughby. The source told The Sun: "Plumb is an absolutely vile individual with a very weird aura around him. Plumb is still completely obsessed and completely remorseless."
When asked about his crimes, Plumb reportedly replied: "Who wouldn't want to kidnap Holly and rape her?" He was described as being smug about it.
Cell Search and Consequences
Plumb, 39, is serving 15 years for soliciting murder, kidnap, and commissioning rape. His cell was searched after his behavior raised concerns. The source added: "Plumb was going round and collecting TV magazines from other inmates on his landing and scouring them for pictures of Holly."
Someone may have informed guards, leading to a search that uncovered a folder filled with images of Willoughby, which were destroyed. Plumb has lost his privileges as a result.
Willoughby's Departure from ITV
Holly Willoughby quit This Morning just 14 days after the ordeal, stating: "I have to make this decision for me and my family." The incident had a profound impact on her career and personal life.
Political and Prison Service Response
Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy commented: "A man who has been jailed for such obsessive crimes should not be able to obtain images of his victim behind bars. From drugs and weapons to obscene material, there is a huge problem with contraband in prisons." He urged Labour to improve security instead of releasing criminals early.
A Prison Service spokesperson said: "These prisoners' crimes were despicable and it is right they are behind bars where they belong. We are cracking down on drugs, drones and illicit items with stronger physical security and better staffing at Long Lartin."
Holly Willoughby's spokeswoman has been contacted for further comment.
