In a case that sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, security guard Gavin Plumb has been handed a life sentence for orchestrating a depraved plot to kidnap, rape and murder beloved television presenter Holly Willoughby.
The 37-year-old father-of-two, described by prosecutors as possessing a "deep, persistent and ingrained obsession" with the ITV star, was told he must serve a minimum of 15 years behind bars for his chilling conspiracy.
The Sinister Blueprint
Plumb's disturbing plan involved assembling what he called a "kidnap and restraint kit" containing cable ties, rope and handcuffs. The security guard at The Pinnacles shopping centre in Harlow meticulously researched Willoughby's television schedule and London residence, believing he had recruited an American accomplice to help execute his vile scheme.
Unknown to Plumb, his supposed collaborator was actually an undercover police officer from Minnesota who had infiltrated his online communications. The officer became alarmed by Plumb's detailed discussions about abducting the This Morning host from her family home.
Chilling Online Trail
Evidence presented at Chelmsford Crown Court revealed Plumb had been discussing his violent fantasies online for nearly a decade. Prosecutor Alison Morgan KC told the court: "He was not simply engaging in dark fantasy. He had moved to a plan to commit the most serious violence."
Police discovered thousands of images of Willoughby on Plumb's devices, along with searches for her home address and details about her husband and children. The security guard had even researched travel routes between his Harlow base and Willoughby's London residence.
The Downfall
Plumb's downfall came when he shared images of the kidnapping equipment with the undercover officer, boasting he had "everything needed to kidnap a celebrity". The officer immediately alerted UK authorities, leading to Plumb's arrest at his home in October 2023.
During the trial, the court heard how Willoughby was left "shaken, terrified and sickened" upon learning of the plot. The popular presenter subsequently stepped down from her role on This Morning after 14 years, citing safety concerns.
Justice Served
Sentencing Plumb, Mr Justice Murray told him: "You intended to commit a series of brutal sexual offences ending in her murder. It is clear from the evidence you are obsessed with Holly Willoughby."
The judge imposed a life sentence with a minimum term of 15 years, plus an extended licence period of five years, noting Plumb would "continue to be a danger to women" for the foreseeable future.
Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby of Essex Police praised Willoughby's courage throughout the investigation, stating: "Plumb is a dangerous individual who committed a devastating crime."
