American woman in court accused of conspiracy to murder shop owner

An American woman has appeared in a British court accused of plotting to murder a Birmingham clothing store owner and his family members.

Amy Betro of Wisconsin was extradited from Armenia, where she was arrested last summer on charges Sept. 8, 2019.

The 45-year-old man has also been charged with possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and allegations that he was involved in the importation of ammunition from the US into Britain.

Appearing before magistrates in Birmingham, Ms Betro indicated she would deny all charges. He was remanded in custody ahead of his next hearing at Birmingham Crown Court in February.

On Thursday, when Ms Betro was charged, police said it followed an incident in South Yardley where a man was threatened with a firearm, however the weapon jammed, allowing him to escape.

Ms. Betro’s lawyer did not ask for bail. He was landed at Gatwick Airport on Thursday.

She attended the five-minute hearing wearing a gray top and glasses and braiding her blonde hair.

Before the case was adjourned to 14 February for a preliminary hearing, she spoke to confirm her name, date of birth and address in Armenia.