Fan of TV show Dexter killed and dismembered two men, UK jury told
James Desborough, a 40-year-old fan of the serial killer drama Dexter, is accused of murdering two men and dismembering their bodies in woodland near his Cornwall cabin.
Trial details
The Winchester Crown Court heard that Desborough allegedly killed Claudio Aquilino, 57, and Daniel Coleman, 43, before dismembering and burning their remains. The bodies were hidden in dense undergrowth close to his cabin near St Austell. After the murders, he accessed the victims' bank accounts and attempted to cover his tracks by making it appear that one had gone to London and the other was walking the Saints' Way trail.
Police conducted a five-month search of the woods, discovering 1,900 burned bone fragments believed to be from Aquilino's body in a stream. Parts of Coleman's dismembered body, including his torso, legs, and feet, were found in a shallow grave. An axe was found hanging from a tree near the grave.
Prosecutor Ahmed Hossain KC told the jury that Desborough was present during some police searches and commented to a forensic biologist that he "particularly enjoyed the dismemberment scenes" in the show Dexter. Hossain noted that while many people are fans of the show, the comment gains significance given the discovery of two dismembered bodies on his land.
Evidence found in cabin
During a search of Desborough's cabin, police found a handwritten note stating: "I know I am a killer and ready to execute any predators." Other notes referenced plans to buy a ghillie suit, a way to leave the UK, "bodies buried", "new burner phone", and "safe house".
Desborough denies murdering the two men between April and July last year but has admitted preventing their lawful burial. The prosecution claims that Desborough believed Coleman was aggressive towards a woman he had a romantic interest in. After allegedly killing Coleman, Desborough messaged the woman: "I can't help but protect women and children."
The trial continues.
