Gavin Plumb, a 37-year-old security guard from Harlow, Essex, has been found guilty of plotting to kidnap, rape, murder and keep her in an abandoned stud farm with cell television presenter Holly Willoughby. He was put in jail and charged after carelessly disclosing his plans online to an undercover police officer in the US.
Plumb had collected a toolkit for sexual cruelty, including 400 “heavy-duty” metal cable ties, bottles purported to contain chloroform, a stun gun, and a mask. He had a “real intention” to perform his crimes and had planned to kidnap Willoughby from her home, rape her repeatedly, and then murder her. He also planned to “keep” her in an abandoned stud farm with cells.
The trial showed that Plumb had an “obsession” with Willoughby crossing over 10 years and had previously been sentenced to attempted kidnap and false custody. He refused the charges but was condemned after an 8-day trial.
Willoughby issued a statement thanking and praising the police and CPS for ensuring justice and praising the bravery of Plumb’s previous sufferer. The case marks the dangers of online grooming and the importance of monitoring online activity to avoid harm.
More Read
The investigation was a joint effort between Essex Police and the FBI, who were alerted to Plumb’s plans by an undercover police officer in the US. Plumb’s conviction is scheduled for July 12. The case serves as an example of the importance of international cooperation in preventing and investigating crimes.
Plumb’s conviction has been appreciated by the public and the media, who have praised the police and CPS for their swift and effective action in preventing harm to Willoughby. The case serves as a warning to those who think they can put out of sight behind online obscurity to keep alive harmful imaginations.
By BBC news
