A Romanian couple has been sentenced to 17 years in prison for drugging and killing two men they targeted in a honeytrap scheme to steal valuables.
Key developments:
- Adina Mihai, 31, and Madalin Dumitru, 30, were convicted of manslaughter and administering poison to four victims between August 2024 and July 2025.
- The pair posed as an escort and her partner to lure men into meetings, where they spiked drinks with the sedative gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) before stealing cash, jewelry, and watches.
Court proceedings and sentencing
On Thursday, Oxford Crown Court sentenced Mihai and Dumitru to 17 years each for their roles in the deaths of Malcolm King, 80, and Gary Mouat, 37. The couple had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of manslaughter and two counts of administering poison to survivors.
During the trial, prosecutors described how Mihai would arrange meetings with men who paid for sexual services, then spike their drinks with GBL while Dumitru waited nearby. The court heard that Mihai would search victims’ homes for valuables once they lost consciousness. Mrs Justice Brunner KC emphasized the reckless nature of their actions, noting that the dosage of GBL was “haphazard” and posed a “high risk of serious injury or death.”
Victims and timeline of crimes
The first victim, Malcolm King, died in August 2024 at his home in Bagendon, Gloucestershire. Initially, his death was treated as non-suspicious due to his pre-existing heart condition, but it was later linked to GBL poisoning after a similar case emerged.
Gary Mouat, 37, died in July 2025 in Banbury, Oxfordshire, after consuming a spiked drink. His death was confirmed as GBL poisoning, prompting a re-examination of King’s case. Two other men survived after being poisoned in July 2025, though their identities remain protected under reporting restrictions.
Modus operandi and motives
Investigators described the operation as a premeditated scheme targeting wealthy individuals. Mihai, who posed as an escort, would assess potential victims’ wealth before selecting targets. Prosecutors stated the couple acted “out of greed,” with Dumitru armed and waiting nearby during the thefts.
Police investigations and potential additional victims
Thames Valley Police and Gloucestershire Police have not ruled out the possibility of other victims. Authorities continue to review cases involving GBL poisoning, particularly those where victims were found with spiked drinks or valuables missing.
Legal and societal implications
The case has raised concerns about the accessibility of GBL and other sedatives, as well as the vulnerabilities of individuals seeking escort services. Legal experts note that the sentencing reflects the severity of the crimes, which combined theft, deception, and manslaughter.
The couple’s previous residence in Birmingham and later move to Ilford were noted in court, though their exact whereabouts prior to arrest remain undisclosed in public records.