Holly Willoughby targeted by kidnap, rape and murder plot - court

In a shocking trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, Gavin Plumb, a 37-year-old man from Harlow, Essex, is facing charges of plotting to kidnap, rape, and murder TV presenter Holly Willoughby. The court heard that Plumb had expressed his "ultimate fantasy" of targeting Willoughby for an extended period and had taken concrete steps to carry out his plan. This included purchasing items such as metal cable ties, a knife, and chloroform, a drug used to incapacitate victims. Prosecutor Alison Morgan KC revealed that Plumb had engaged in online discussions with another individual, whom he believed to be a like-minded accomplice but was actually an undercover police officer from the US. Plumb shared detailed plans with this individual, outlining his intentions to commit heinous acts against Willoughby. The court was informed that Plumb had a folder on his phone containing over 10,000 images of Willoughby, many of which were manipulated to be pornographic in nature. The prosecution highlighted Plumb's history of violent behavior, including incidents where he had restrained a 16-year-old girl and attempted to force two women off a train using threats. The jury was told that Plumb's obsession with Willoughby had escalated over the years, culminating in his elaborate plot to carry out the kidnapping, rape, and murder of the celebrity. Despite his denials, Plumb faces charges of soliciting murder, inciting kidnap, and inciting rape. As the trial unfolds, the court is presented with chilling details of Plumb's intentions and preparations for the alleged crimes. Willoughby, who waived her right to anonymity during the proceedings, is not expected to testify. The case has garnered significant attention, with crime correspondent Amy-Clare Martin providing updates from the courtroom. Plumb is set to reappear at Chelmsford Crown Court to face the accusations leveled against him.