'Cult' members jailed over Chelmsford coroner kidnap plot

Two members of a "cult" have been jailed for their roles in a plot to kidnap a Chelmsford coroner.

Essex Police launched an investigation after receiving information that a group of people had planned to abduct Caroline Beasley-Murray from her home in April 2021.

Officers identified two suspects, Michael Wade, 59, of no fixed address, and Tracy Whittaker, 66, of no fixed address, as being involved in the plot.

The pair were arrested in April 2021 and charged with conspiracy to kidnap.

Wade was jailed for five years and four months, while Whittaker was jailed for three years and four months.

Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Jennings, of Essex Police, said: "This was a complex and challenging investigation, which involved a number of different agencies working together.

"The motive for the kidnap plot is still unknown, but we believe that the group may have been motivated by a belief that Ms Beasley-Murray was involved in the death of their relative."

"We are pleased with the sentences handed down today, which reflect the seriousness of the offences committed.

"We would like to thank all of the officers and staff involved in this investigation, as well as our partner agencies, for their hard work and dedication."