- Plumb has been sentenced to life in prison
- He plotted to abduct, rape, and murder Holly
- Plumb was found guilty after an eight-day trial
A security guard, Gavin Plumb, has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 16 years for plotting to abduct, rape, and murder television presenter Holly Willoughby.
Plumb, 37, from Harlow, Essex, discussed his vile plan in an online chatroom called “Abduct Lovers,” unaware he was communicating with an undercover police officer. During these chats, he described the horrifying acts he envisioned committing against Ms. Willoughby, which a judge described as “sadistic, brutal, and degrading.”
The court heard that the ordeal has had a significant impact on Ms. Willoughby, both personally and professionally.
Despite denying the charges, Plumb was found guilty after an eight-day trial. The judge highlighted Plumb’s past convictions for attempted kidnap and chillingly noted that Plumb believed he could find accomplices to carry out his plan.
While Plumb claimed his plan was a fantasy, the judge saw through this, pointing out that Plumb had previously discussed his physical limitations and still intended to act.
The defendant showed no emotion during sentencing. He will serve at least 15 years and 85 days in prison due to time served before trial.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking online and the importance of law enforcement efforts to protect potential victims.
