Security guard Gavin Plumb found guilty of plotting to kidnap, rape, and murder TV star Holly Willoughby
In a shocking turn of events, security guard Gavin Plumb has been found guilty of plotting to kidnap, rape, and murder television presenter Holly Willoughby. The 37-year-old from Harlow, Essex, had assembled a tool kit for highly sexualized violence against the former This Morning presenter to fulfill his “ultimate fantasy.”
Plumb’s sinister plans were uncovered when he unwittingly disclosed them online to an undercover police officer in the US. He denied soliciting murder and inciting kidnap and rape between 2021 and 2023 but was ultimately found guilty following an eight-day trial at Chelmsford Crown Court.
Ms. Willoughby, who ended her 14-year stint on This Morning after the offenses came to light in October 2023, expressed her gratitude to the undercover police officer and the Metropolitan and Essex police forces for their swift response. Plumb, who had previous convictions for attempted kidnap, wept in the dock as he was told he would be sentenced on 12 July.
Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood of Essex Police described Plumb as an “obsessive loner” who had assembled all the items necessary to cause serious harm to Holly Willoughby. He emphasized the importance of the American officer’s intervention, stating that without it, Plumb could have gone on to commit truly horrific crimes.
Prosecutor Alison Morgan KC described Plumb’s plan as “chilling,” highlighting his real intention to kidnap the broadcaster, take her to a location where she would be raped repeatedly, and then murder her. Plumb had developed an obsession with Ms. Willoughby spanning over a decade, with jurors hearing that he had purchased 400 “heavy duty” metal cable ties and bottles purported to contain chloroform to incapacitate the presenter and her husband.
Plumb’s disturbing messages and actions were brought to light through the efforts of the FBI, who were alerted by an undercover police officer in the US. Plumb’s previous convictions for attempted kidnap and false imprisonment further underscored the dangerous nature of his intentions.
In a statement following the verdict, Ms. Willoughby emphasized the importance of women feeling safe in their daily lives and homes. She thanked the CPS, the jury, and the bravery of Plumb’s previous victims for ensuring that justice was served and that the defendant would not be able to harm any more women.
