A man facing charges of torturing and killing a British woman who flew to the US with suicidal intentions has reportedly made shocking phone calls to his wife from prison, according to records.
Sonia Exelby’s body was discovered in a wooded area in Marion Oaks, Florida, after she missed her return flight to the UK on October 13. The 32-year-old from Portsmouth, Hampshire, had arrived in Tallahassee to meet Dwain Hall, whom she had been communicating with online through a fetish website.
Concerns arose among friends when they learned of Sonia’s trip to the US, fearing she was in a vulnerable state due to her mental health struggles. Investigators found evidence on her computer indicating her suicidal intentions and her belief that she might face abuse, torture, and potential murder in the United States.
Following the recovery of Sonia’s remains from a shallow grave, Florida police arrested Dwain Hall on charges of first-degree murder and kidnapping. Hall has been making numerous phone calls and video visits from Marion County Jail, including conversations with his wife Ginger Stein that have raised disturbing concerns.
In these conversations, Hall expressed remorse and worry, stating that he doesn’t expect to return home and acknowledging the severity of the situation. He claimed financial motivations but admitted that the situation had escalated beyond what was initially intended.
Authorities connected Hall to transactions made using Sonia’s credit cards, with Hall alleging that Sonia owed him money to settle his IRS debt, leading to a confrontation upon her arrival in the US. Hall’s actions, including withdrawing funds from Sonia’s bank account and manipulating her into recording messages, indicated a pattern of control and coercion.
Tragically, it seems Sonia may have attempted to change course but found herself trapped in a dangerous scenario. Video footage suggested Hall coercing Sonia, who exhibited signs of reluctance and distress during their interactions.
Messages sent by Sonia to a friend highlighted her fear and desperation, revealing her struggles to escape a threatening situation orchestrated by Hall. These messages painted a grim picture of Sonia’s ordeal in the days leading up to her tragic death.
A subsequent autopsy report detailed the extent of Sonia’s injuries, confirming that she died from stab wounds inflicted by Hall. The report classified her death as a homicide, shedding light on the brutality of the crime.
Hall, maintaining his innocence through legal representation, will face court proceedings in the coming months. His attorney emphasized his right to remain silent on the allegations and expressed condolences for the loss suffered by Sonia’s loved ones.
For those in need of emotional support, resources such as the Samaritans helpline are available to provide assistance during difficult times.