A devotee of the TV show character Dexter, who stands accused of killing two men discovered dismembered in a forest, allegedly left a disturbing note stating “I’m a killer.”
James Desborough, aged 40, self-identified as a killer and expressed readiness to deal with predators, as disclosed in court. He is said to have penned notes labeled “bug out list” and “hostiles.”
Desborough faces charges for the murders of Claudio Aquilino, 57, and Daniel Coleman, 43, in Cornwall last year. Both victims had previously resided with Desborough at a homeless hostel in Newquay, and the last sighting of them was in the defendant’s presence.
The victims’ remains were found dismembered and incinerated in Sticker Woods, where Desborough resided in a cabin. Authorities uncovered around 1,900 charred bone fragments, believed to belong to Mr. Aquilino.
Parts of Mr. Coleman’s dismembered body, such as his torso, legs, and feet, were located in a nearby shallow grave. During Desborough’s arrest for Mr. Coleman’s murder, a search of his cabin uncovered the incriminating notes.
In clear handwriting, the notes portrayed the world as a “flat game board,” mentioning past-life memories and a self-awareness of being a killer. Detailed plans to leave the UK, including references to “bodies buried” and a “new disguise,” were found among the notes.
Prosecutor Ahmed Hossain KC informed the court about Desborough’s drawings of concentric circles, designating Sticker Woods as the central point and listing London and Benidorm as outer locations under the title “Kill Zone.” Plans to depart the UK were dated July 15, 2025.
Desborough has pleaded guilty to preventing the lawful burial of the victims’ bodies but denies the murder charges. The trial is ongoing.
