NEW YORK — Prosecutors say a New York City police officer wanted to kidnap, torture and devour women in a twisted plot of cannibalism.

The accusations were made Monday during opening statements at the federal trial of Gilberto Valle (VAL'-ee).

Federal prosecutors in Manhattan plan to use e-mails and other evidence to show that the 28-year-old was a would-be killer. They say he even drew up a list of targets using a law enforcement database.

Defense witnesses are expected to describe how he lived in a secret, online fantasy world. The defense says participants role-play as cannibals, but never act on it.

Valle's wife is expected to testify against him later Monday.