Gavin Plumb, who is serving a 15-year sentence for plotting to kidnap and assault television presenter Holly Willoughby, was recently found in possession of numerous photographs of the star while incarcerated at HMP Long Lartin in Worcestershire. Prison officers discovered the images hidden beneath his mattress during a cell search prompted by concerns about his behavior.

The 39-year-old former security guard’s collection, reportedly sourced from magazines, led to the loss of privileges, including access to television. A source familiar with the case described Plumb as "completely obsessed" with Willoughby and expressed concerns about his ongoing risk. The source also cited a disturbing remark made by Plumb, in which he questioned why anyone would not want to kidnap and sexually assault the presenter.

Plumb was convicted at Chelmsford Crown Court in 2024 for conspiring to kidnap, murder, and rape Willoughby, after an online sting operation involving an undercover U.S. officer posing as a fellow conspirator. Plumb had detailed his plan in an internet chatroom in October 2023, which included targeting both Willoughby and her husband, television producer Dan Baldwin. Authorities arrested him at his home in Harlow shortly after being alerted to the threat. At the time of his arrest, police found a “kidnap kit” consisting of handcuffs, cable ties, and chloroform, along with more than 10,000 images of Willoughby.

The source also revealed that Plumb has developed a close association inside prison with Steve Wright, the Suffolk Strangler, who is serving a life sentence for multiple murders. The two inmates reportedly spend time together cooking meals, watching television, including crime documentaries, and playing cards. Despite the availability of drugs such as cocaine, MDMA, spice, and steroids within the facility, the source stated that neither Plumb nor Wright are known to use them.

Plumb’s criminal history includes previous convictions for attempted abduction and unlawful imprisonment of minors, with sentences dating back to 2006 and 2008. His current sentence includes a minimum term of 15 years and 85 days.

The incident has reignited concerns over prison security and the availability of contraband materials. Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy criticized the current system, emphasizing that inmates serving sentences for obsessive and violent crimes should not have access to images or materials linked to their victims. He called for tougher security measures, criticizing soft sentencing policies.

A spokesperson for the Prison Service acknowledged the seriousness of crimes committed by inmates like Plumb and Wright, affirming ongoing efforts to enhance security at facilities such as Long Lartin. Measures reportedly include increased physical security and staffing, supported by a £40 million investment aimed at curbing the flow of illicit items into prisons.

Attempts to obtain comment from Willoughby’s representatives were not successful.