Robbers devised a plot to cut Joss Stone's head off after they became convinced she was a 'corrupt she-devil',.
THE motive behind a plot to murder Devon singer Joss Stone could have been her close link to the royal family, a court has heard.
Kevin Liverpool and Junior Bradshaw are on trial at Exeter Crown Court accused of conspiracy to rob, kill and cause GBH to the star after being arrested near her Ashill home in June 2011.
The court heard how the singer/song-writer, who has toured the world since becoming a teenage star, was at home when the plot was foiled.
The duo arose suspicion after driving their Fiat Punto around Cullompton and asking members of the public for directions. Several eagle-eyed locals contacted the police.
When an officer stopped and searched their vehicle among the items they found were a Samurai sword, hammers, knives, gaffa tape, bin bags a balaclava and various handwritten notes.
Simon Morgan, for the prosecution, said that the notes indicated they knew where the defendant lived and had done substantial research before setting off on their journey from their Manchester home early that morning. Mr Morgan added that notes suggest they had planned to decapitate her and throw her in a river. The notes included several references to killing Joss Stone. A text message sent as early as 15 January talks of "looking to take out Jocelyn."
Further notes talk of the Queen being the "she-devil" and "liking Joss" for inviting her to the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
Mr Morgan added: "The items in their possession, the trips to the area, the fact that the intended victim was at home, the notes and maps all point to a determined effort on the part of defendants to carry out the plan they had hatched some time before.
"The evidence establishes that they intended to rob and kill their target using the equipment they had with them.
"Motive is irrelevant to guilt but the documents give some possible clues. The documents appear to express disapproval of the royal family. Joss Stone associated with members of the Royal family; her concerts have been attended by members of it and she was invited to the Royal wedding at the very end of April that year. Hence she becomes a target."
Another motive could have for Liverpool to pay off fines he owed.
The defendants both deny the charges. The trial, which has been listed for three weeks, resumes tomorrow.
