James Desborough, 40, who lived in a cabin in Old Oak Woods, Lower Sticker, Cornwall, is on trial at Winchester Crown Court for the murders of Daniel Coleman, 43, and Claudio Aquilino. The dismembered remains of both victims were discovered by police search teams and forensic scientists in Paramoor Woods, near Sticker, where Desborough had been living.
Prosecution Case
Prosecutor Ahmed Hossain KC told the jury that Desborough murdered and dismembered both men, then attempted to burn and bury their remains to conceal the crimes. He also allegedly used the victims' bank accounts after their deaths, spending their money at a Post Office in Sticker and on a train journey to Paddington station in London.
Desborough has pleaded guilty to preventing the lawful burial of both men but denies the murders, answering 'no comment' in police interviews. The trial continues.
Victims' Background
Both victims had previously lived with Desborough at Sandy Lodge, a multi-occupancy residence in Newquay that housed individuals who were often homeless and battling substance addictions. Mr. Hossain stated that both men were last seen alive in Desborough's company.
Mr. Aquilino, despite his addiction and financial difficulties, maintained near-daily phone contact with family in Italy. He was evicted from Sandy Lodge on April 11, 2025, after another resident's mobile phone was stolen. Desborough had left the premises three days earlier.
Final Sightings
On April 17, 2025, Mr. Aquilino contacted police, saying he was frightened and trying to avoid involvement in a crime with Desborough, who had a crowbar and axe and intended to damage a hotel. He described Desborough as 'really off his head' and 'kamikaze'.
The last time Mr. Aquilino was seen alive was April 18, 2025, at a pub in Newquay with Desborough, where he sold his mobile phone. After that, all contact with his family ceased. Desborough's phone was switched off between April 16 and 22, which the prosecution says is not a coincidence.
Financial Evidence
Financial investigators noted that Mr. Aquilino's bank account showed a regular pattern of access and DWP income before April 18, but that pattern changed after his disappearance.
Desborough, who appeared in the dock wearing a grey T-shirt, beard, and glasses, denies the charges. The trial continues.
