A supporter of the TV series character Dexter, who is accused of killing two men found dismembered in a forest, allegedly left a note stating “I’m a killer.”
James Desborough, aged 40, referred to himself as a killer and expressed readiness to confront predators, according to court testimonies. It is reported that Desborough wrote various notes, including one labeled “bug out list” and another titled “hostiles.”
Desborough stands accused of the murder of Claudio Aquilino, 57, and Daniel Coleman, 43, in Cornwall last year. The victims had previously shared a hostel with Desborough in Newquay, and the last sighting of both men was in the company of the defendant.
Their remains were discovered dismembered and burned in Sticker Woods, where Desborough resided in a cabin. Authorities found around 1,900 charred bone fragments believed to belong to Mr. Aquilino in the woods.
Parts of Mr. Coleman’s dismembered body, including his torso, legs, and feet, were located in a nearby shallow grave. During Desborough’s arrest on suspicion of Mr. Coleman’s murder, a search of his cabin uncovered the incriminating notes.
In a meticulous script, the notes describe the world as a “flat game board,” stating: “I’ve journeyed and sense I’ve retained knowledge from a previous life, I’m an echo in time repeating continually. I am aware of my capabilities and training. Once again returning from a significant conflict, I understand the complete opposite of my being. I acknowledge that I am a killer, prepared to eliminate any threats.”
Prosecutor Ahmed Hossain informed the court that among numerous notes, one mentioned “Take care of the remaining muppets,” with Mr. Coleman’s name listed. The notes contained details of travel plans and an intention to leave the UK, along with references to specific items such as a “shuffle bag liner,” “bodies buried,” “new disguise,” “new burner phone,” and “safe house.”
The note outlining the safe house included a list of necessities like logs, coal, batteries, and provisions such as alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. Additionally, Desborough drew a set of concentric circles with Sticker Woods at the center, and locations like London and Benidorm mentioned, labeled as the “Kill Zone” under “Operational spheres.”
The travel plans indicated a departure from the UK on July 15, 2025. The prosecutor asserted that all notes were attributed to Desborough. The accused, residing in Old Oak Woods, Lower Sticker, Cornwall, has denied the charges of murder but previously admitted to hindering the lawful burial of the victims. The trial is ongoing.