Chilling Plan to Abduct and Murder TV Star Thwarted by Police
Mark Gordon, 59, Found Guilty of Conspiracy to Murder and Kidnap
Nottinghamshire Police have welcomed the sentencing of Mark Gordon, the man behind the sinister plot to kidnap and murder TV personality Holly Willoughby. Gordon was handed a life sentence today at Nottingham Crown Court for his role in the chilling conspiracy.
The court heard how Gordon had become infatuated with Willoughby and planned to abduct her from her London home. He had even purchased handcuffs, a stun gun, and a chloroform-soaked cloth to carry out his heinous crime.
This was a meticulously planned and deeply disturbing plot that could have had tragic consequences, said Detective Chief Inspector Rob Griffin, who led the investigation.
Gordon’s actions were driven by an unhealthy obsession with Ms. Willoughby, and he was prepared to go to any lengths to fulfill his twisted fantasy.
The investigation began in April 2023 when concerns were raised about Gordon’s behavior towards Willoughby. He had been sending her threatening and harassing messages and making unwanted visits to her home.
Acting on a tip-off, police swooped on Gordon’s home in Retford, Nottinghamshire. They found a cache of weapons and other sinister paraphernalia, including blueprints of Willoughby’s house and a list of her movements.
Gordon was arrested and charged with conspiracy to murder and kidnap. During the trial, he denied any knowledge of the plot, claiming he was being framed. However, the jury found him guilty on all counts.
The court heard chilling evidence of Gordon’s plans:
- He intended to kidnap Willoughby at night and transport her to a remote location.
- He planned to torture and murder her, disposing of her body in the countryside.
- He had even made arrangements for a taxi to dispose of her personal belongings.
The sentence handed down today sends a clear message that such heinous crimes will not be tolerated, said DCI Griffin.
We are grateful to the public for their help in bringing Gordon to justice and preventing him from carrying out his evil intentions.
Holly Willoughby has thanked the police for their swift action and support throughout the ordeal. In a statement, she said:
I am deeply moved by the courage and professionalism of the police officers who intervened and prevented this horrific crime. I cannot express my gratitude enough for their tireless efforts.
Kind regards
E. Thompson
