James Desborough on trial for Dexter‑inspired murders in Cornwall

James Desborough, a 40‑year‑old man from Cornwall, is on trial at Winchester Crown Court for the 2025 murders of Claudio Aquilino, 57, and Daniel Coleman, 43. Both men, whom Desborough met at a homeless shelter, were killed, dismembered and their remains hidden in Paramoor Woods near Desborough’s cabin. Police found more than 1,900 burnt bone fragments in a nearby stream and a shallow grave containing parts of Coleman’s torso, legs and feet. DNA analysis linked the fragments to Aquilino.

Prosecutor Ahmed Hossain KC highlighted that Desborough had told a forensic scientist he "particularly enjoyed" the dismemberment scenes in the TV series Dexter. After the victims disappeared, Desborough accessed their bank accounts and spent their money, attempting to create a false trail that suggested one victim had traveled to London while the other was on a long walking route. Evidence presented included an axe found near the grave, a handwritten note saying "I know I am a killer…", and plans for a camouflage suit. Desborough has pleaded guilty to preventing lawful burial but denies the murders. The trial continues.