Forensics Student Accused of Murdering Sex Worker in 'Dexter'-Inspired Kill Room

A forensics student accused of murdering a sex worker allegedly created a "kill room" in an Airbnb, mimicking the US crime drama "Dexter," Wolverhampton Crown Court was told. Benjamin Day, 20, arrested after stabbing Maria Saceanu 78 times, is said to have prepared the room as a "tribute" to the television series.

Prosecutor Rachel Brand KC stated that Day lured Ms. Saceanu to the Airbnb in Tividale, West Midlands, with the intention of disposing of her body. Day, who denies murder, was apprehended in December after injuring his hand and seeking medical assistance. The prosecution contends that Day, who had switched his university course to study applied biology and forensics, had meticulously planned the murder and the subsequent disposal of the body, but his plan went awry.

Evidence presented to the jury suggested Day had acquired a list of items for the killing, including knives, scissors, a mask, apron, gloves, plastic sheeting, duct tape, a staple gun, and bin bags. Many of these items were reportedly found at the scene. The prosecution also highlighted similarities between Day's alleged actions and the "Dexter" series, noting the preparation of the room with plastic sheeting, the use of an apron and gloves, and the discovery of a canvas roll containing knives.

Ms. Saceanu arrived at the Airbnb around 10:20 p.m. on December 20 of last year, after responding to a text message from Day. The prosecution believes the murder occurred shortly after her arrival. Day then allegedly began dismembering the body, sustaining the hand injury that led to his seeking medical help. He is accused of discarding a burner phone before calling emergency services.

Day reportedly told police his hand was cut by a fox or dog. However, a resident at the Airbnb alerted the landlord to a trail of blood, leading to the discovery of Ms. Saceanu's body and Day's arrest at the hospital.

Day's defense is expected to argue self-defense, claiming he had staged the room for a "tribute video" for TikTok. According to this account, Ms. Saceanu became frightened upon seeing the staged room, picked up a knife, and attacked him, resulting in his injury before he disarmed her and fatally stabbed her.

A Home Office pathologist indicated that Ms. Saceanu likely died from wounds to her neck, with injuries to her hands consistent with defensive actions. The prosecution also suggested that microscope slides found in the bedroom could have been taken as "trophies" from the killing, another alleged parallel with the "Dexter" series.

Day, who had no prior police record, had studied journalism before transferring to his current course. The trial is ongoing.