A Florida man, Dwain Hall, 53, from Ocala, has been arrested on charges of first-degree murder and kidnapping following the discovery of a British woman's body in Marion County. According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the victim, identified as 32-year-old Sonia Exelby from Portsmouth, England, allegedly traveled to the U.S. with the intention of being killed.

Exelby, who struggled with mental health issues, was reported missing by British authorities through INTERPOL on October 13. She was supposed to return to the U.K. that day but missed her flight. Her remains were found on October 17, and her death was ruled a homicide.

Authorities discovered that Exelby had communicated with individuals on the Telegram messaging app, expressing a desire to travel to the U.S. to be harmed. Evidence from her computer indicated she planned to be sexually abused, tortured, and murdered. Hall and Exelby met at an Airbnb on October 10, where they allegedly had multiple sexual encounters. A video retrieved by police showed Exelby covered in bruises and answering questions about her wish to be harmed.

Hall was identified as a suspect after attempting to transfer money from Exelby's bank account. He was also charged with fraudulently using credit cards and the unlawful use of a two-way device. Hall initially denied knowing Exelby but later admitted to having sex with her and discussing her desire to be killed.

FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass stated, "This type of violent crime and disregard for human life will not be tolerated in our state."

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary in the U.K. is working with U.S. authorities to assist in the investigation.

Anyone in crisis can call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or contact the network at 800-273-8255.

Joe Soto