James Desborough, 40, a fan of the TV serial killer Dexter, allegedly wrote a chilling note declaring 'I'm a killer' before murdering two men whose dismembered bodies were found in Cornwall woods, a court heard.
Details of the Note
In neat handwriting, the note described the earth as a 'flat game board' and read: 'I've travelled and feel I have remembered knowledge from a previous life, I'm an echo in time constantly repeating. I know what I am and what skills and training I have had. Returning once again from the great war, I know what the polar opposite of what myself is. I know I'm a killer, ready to kill and execute any predators.'
The note also stated: 'The path I have travelled gave me the depth. Pulled out of the system yet again to become a cog in a familiar machine, I know which agency has a keen eye for human with the abilities and skills I have. I've pushed myself both mentally and physically through adversity, through the darkness.'
Victims and Discovery
Desborough is accused of murdering Claudio Aquilino, 57, and Daniel Coleman, 43, last year in Cornwall. The men had previously lived with Desborough at a hostel for the homeless in Newquay. They were last seen alive in his company. Their bodies were dismembered and burnt in Sticker Woods, where Desborough lived in a cabin. Police discovered 1,900 burned bone fragments believed to be from Mr Aquilino's body, and parts of Mr Coleman's body—including torso, legs, and feet—in a shallow grave nearby.
Other Notes and Plans
Among over a dozen other notes found in his cabin was one that said 'Take care of the remaining muppets', with Mr Coleman's name listed. Ahmed Hossain KC, prosecuting, told Winchester Crown Court that the notes included 'detailed travel plans and intent to leave the UK' with mentions of a 'shuffle bag liner', 'bodies buried', 'new disguise', 'new burner phone', and 'safe house'. The safe house note listed items like logs, coal, batteries, and 'always leave some booze, tobacco and weed'.
Desborough also drew a series of concentric circles with Sticker Woods in the centre, and London and Benidorm at the outer point, entitled 'Kill Zone', with sub-heading 'Operational spheres'. The travel plans indicated an intention to leave the UK on July 15, 2025.
Defendant's Plea
Desborough denies two charges of murder but has pleaded guilty to preventing the lawful burial of the two men's bodies. The trial continues.
