An American hitman allegedly hired to kidnap and kill was due to arrive next week before police foiled the alleged plot, reports The Mirror.
Essex Police arrested 36-year-old Gavin Plumb on Wednesday evening on suspicion of plotting to kidnap the presenter, as officers confirmed that “ongoing investigation”.
The This Morning star was informed of the alleged plot shortly before her appearance on the ITV show on Thursday. Holly’s home was under 24-hour surveillance by police officers.
Gavin Plumb, 36, of Potters Field, Harlow, was yesterday charged with murder and aiding and abetting abduction.
He appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Friday after being detained by officers on Wednesday.
During the hearing, District Judge Caroline Dixon told Plumb: “This is a really serious allegation. The case against you is you had items in your home which were used in the preparation to carry out these offences. The other party is abroad and has made preparations to arrive in the UK next week,” reports The Mirror.
Plumb was remanded in custody and ordered to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on November 3.
Holly, 42, pulled out of This Morning on Thursday at the last minute after speaking out about alleged threats. The star is said to be in “distraught”.
The following day, Alison returned to the This Morning sofa with Dermot O’Leary.
After the show opened, the pair addressed the news of the alleged kidnapping plot and shared with the audience: “We are not going to talk too much about it but Holly is on the front pages after police arrested a 36-year-old man over an alleged kidnap plot. He has now been charged by Essex Police,” reports The Mirror.
Alison said: “We are obviously all shocked to hear the news and we want to send our love and biggest hugs to Holly and her family,” reports The Mirror.
Superintendent Tim Tubbs of Essex Police said: “This was an extremely fast-paced investigation, with many of our officers and national partners working overnight to secure these charges. The safeguarding of any victim is paramount and we will continue to prioritise this as the investigation proceeds,” reports The Mirror.
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