A security guard who plotted to abduct, rape and murder television presenter Holly Willoughby has been jailed for a minimum of 16 years.
Gavin Plumb said his “ultimate fantasy” was to use tools he had assembled to perpetrate highly sexualised violence against the former This Morning anchor.
The 37-year-old, from Harlow, Essex, was caught after he unknowingly disclosed his plans to an undercover police officer operating in the online chatroom “Abduct Lovers”.
The jail term was passed as part of a life sentence.
Mr Justice Edward Murray said the offences have had “life-changing consequences” on Ms Willoughby, both “privately and professionally”.
Plumb had denied soliciting murder and inciting kidnap and rape between 2021 and 2023, but was found guilty following an eight-day trial at Chelmsford Crown Court.
“I have no doubt this was all considerably more than a fantasy to you,” said the judge, who noted Plumb’s “gross obesity” which he had previously talked to the BBC about.
The judge added: “Your plan was hopelessly unrealistic for a number of reasons – including your physical health – but you clearly thought it was feasible.
“You always intended to carry out your plan to kidnap, rape and kill Ms Willoughby if you could find ‘the right crew’ to do it.”
The judge said Plumb would serve at least 15 years and 85 days of the minimum jail sentence, having spent a portion of time behind bars on remand.
The defendant, who had previous convictions for attempted kidnap, stood emotionless in the dock as he was sentenced.
Ms Willoughby ended her 14-year stint on This Morning after the offences came to light in October 2023.
