American man accused of horrific hire murder of Southsea woman Sonia Exelby appears in court

Dwain Hall, 53, of Ocala, is accused of first-degree murder and kidnapping in the homicide of missing Sonia Exelby who allegedly flew out to America to be killed by the accused.

The 32-year-old’s mutilated remains were found buried in woods in Marion County, Florida, on October 17, as reported. An autopsy revealed she had been stabbed four times.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) arrested Hall following a “swift and intensive investigation that led to the discovery of her remains” less than one week after she was reported missing. Hall was charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping on November 17.

Concerns were raised by Sonia’s loved ones to Hampshire Police which alerted Interpol before American authorities launched its probe and found her butchered remains in a shallow grave. It is alleged that Sonia, who struggled with her mental health, met Hall on a fetish website in 2024 with a view to being tortured and murdered.

Hall claimed he was her mentor who wanted to help her, not let her kill herself. But he did reportedly admit to having violent tendencies.

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Appearing in court, Hall pleaded not guilty to first degree murder and kidnapping. A judge issued no bond for Hall, meaning he will stay in jail as he awaits trial. He is next due in court on December 23.

Hall was already in jail following his arrest on October 18 for alleged fraudulent use of Sonia’s credit cards and unlawful use of a two-way transmission device.

FDLE commissioner Mark Glass previously said: “Our agents worked with extraordinary speed and unwavering determination to ensure justice was served and closure was brought to the victim’s family.

“This type of violent crime and disregard for human life will not be tolerated in our state – those who commit such heinous crimes will be held fully accountable.”

The FDLE added: “The investigation remains active.”

If you've been affected and bereaved by suicide, Cruse is a dedicated service providing free and confidential support across Portsmouth, Southampton, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Call 0330 555 0129, or visit supportaftersuicideship.org.uk

If you need urgent help with your mental health, there is free support available 24/7 from:

• Samaritans - call 116 123 or email [email protected]

• Shout - text HANTS to 85258

• NHS - call 111 and select the mental health option, or in an emergency, call 999