An American woman standing trial for an alleged failed assassination attempt on a Birmingham shop owner has told jurors she flew to the UK solely to celebrate a friend's birthday and attend a lavish boat party—not to carry out a murder-for-hire scheme.
The accused, whose identity remains protected due to ongoing legal proceedings, denied any involvement in the plot during her testimony at Birmingham Crown Court. Prosecutors allege she was hired as a professional hitwoman, but she maintains her visit was purely social.
The Prosecution's Case
According to the Crown, the defendant was contracted to kill the shop owner following a business dispute. Evidence presented includes alleged communications discussing payment and method. However, the defence argues these exchanges were misinterpreted.
The Birthday Alibi
The defendant testified that her trip coincided with a close friend's milestone celebration, complete with a Thames riverboat gathering. She presented photographs and witness statements supporting her claim of attending the event.
"I'd never even heard of [the victim] before this case," she told the court. "My Instagram posts from that weekend show me clinking champagne glasses, not stalking some shopkeeper."
Forensic Challenges
Forensic experts acknowledged difficulties linking the defendant directly to the crime scene. No weapon was recovered, and CCTV footage allegedly showing her near the shop is grainy.
The trial continues as jurors weigh competing narratives about the American's UK visit—was it an innocent holiday or a deadly professional assignment?
