A man from Florida is currently in custody, accused of killing a young woman from the United Kingdom. Authorities say the woman traveled to America with the intention of being ‘sexually abused, tortured, and murdered.’ Court documents reveal this disturbing case.
Alleged Dangerous Plan
Sonia Exelby from Portsmouth, England, was reported missing in October 2025. She had not returned from a planned visit to the United States. Texts to a friend indicated she regretted her decision and wanted to withdraw from the alleged arrangement with Dwain Hall. However, it was seemingly too late.
Eventually, investigators located Exelby’s body buried in a shallow grave in the woods of Ocala, Florida. Hall, 54, is now charged with premeditated first-degree murder and kidnapping. His trial is set for November 5 in Marion County, Florida.
Meeting Online
In 2023, Hall and Exelby connected on a ‘fetish website,’ where they discussed various disturbing topics, including Exelby’s desire for someone to kill her. Hall portrayed himself as a sadist, initiating what he claimed to be a process of ‘mentoring’ Exelby.
Exelby reportedly offered to pay Hall $4,000 cash to assist with his debts, with the understanding that he would fulfill her alleged ‘wishes.’ Court documents reveal that they even devised a ‘cover story’ to share with their families.
Despite previous intervention by authorities in the UK, Exelby planned another trip to the United States. In 2024, UK authorities intercepted her attempt to meet individuals willing to harm her violently. She had known mental health issues, records indicate.
Exelby traveled to Gainesville, Florida, arriving on October 10, 2025. She booked an Airbnb near Hall’s location. Before picking her up, Hall purchased tools such as rope, deodorant, parachute cord, and a shovel from a local store.
Final Hours
Exelby shared disturbing messages with a friend, conveying fear and regret about her choices. She expressed concern that Hall had locked her in and confiscated her phone. She feared for her life, fully aware that this communication might be her last.
Hall allegedly charged over $1,200 using Exelby’s debit card for his business expenses. When Exelby missed her return flight, she was deemed missing, which led to an investigation that uncovered Hall’s involvement. Digital footprints helped direct authorities to Hall.
Discovery and Evidence
On October 17, law enforcement officials discovered Exelby’s body in Marion County, Florida. They noted four stab wounds were present on her body, and the shovel label was found nearby.
Hall was apprehended shortly after. Before his arrest, Hall messaged a friend about a package containing ‘precious personal items.’ Inside, investigators found a bracelet and a knife matching details from the investigation, including Exelby’s DNA.
Initially, Hall denied knowing Exelby but later admitted to filming her, claiming her behavior caused him to delete it.
Disturbing Video
Investigators retrieved a video showing a distressed Exelby. Hall is allegedly heard directing her responses, with Exelby admitting to feeling broken and in pain.
Hall asked her to confirm her desire for suffering, and Exelby nodded in agreement. These details, along with Exelby’s financial information, built a case against Hall, who now faces six felony charges. There is a possibility of the death penalty.