A British woman, Sonia Exelby, 32, from Portsmouth, was tragically found dead in a forest in Marion County, Florida, after arriving in the US with the alleged intention of meeting a man from a fetish website who would kill her. Sonia’s disappearance was reported by a friend who expressed concerns about her vulnerable state and mental health struggles.
British authorities, suspecting foul play, contacted the Florida Department of Law Enforcement through INTERPOL. It was revealed that Sonia, who was believed to be suicidal and dealing with mental health issues, had traveled to Florida to meet a man who was allegedly planning to harm her. Dwain Hall, 53, was arrested in connection to the case after transactions using Sonia’s credit cards were traced back to him.
Hall admitted to meeting Sonia on a fetish website two years prior and claimed she had expressed a desire to end her life. He described himself as a mentor rather than a killer, although he acknowledged having violent tendencies. Video evidence showed Sonia with bruises, appearing distressed as Hall pressured her into agreeing to harm. Messages from Sonia indicated she felt controlled and fearful of Hall.
Following Sonia’s death, her body was discovered with matching fingerprints in the woods, and a shovel with her DNA was found in Hall’s possession. An autopsy revealed that Sonia had been stabbed four times with a knife, which was later found with blood suspected to be hers. Hall faces charges of first-degree murder, kidnapping, credit card fraud, and unlawful use of a communication device.
If you or someone you know needs emotional support, contact the Samaritans helpline at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org. Visit the Samaritans website for more information and resources.