Full Breakdown
Romanian Couple Sentenced to 17 Years for Fatal GBL Drugging Scheme
8/14/2026, 2:30:21 AM
Core Event: Fatal Drugging and Theft Operation
Adina Mihai, 31, and Madalin Dumitru, 30, posed as a sex-worker and driver to lure men who paid for escort services. Mihai spiked the victims’ wine with gamma-butyrolactone (GBL). While unconscious, the pair stole cash, jewellery and watches. Four men were drugged; two—Malcolm King, 80, of Gloucestershire, and Gary Mouat, 37, of Oxfordshire—died. Both pleaded guilty to two counts of manslaughter and to administering poison to two survivors and received 17-year sentences in Oxford Crown Court.
Background & Context
The scheme was advertised on Vivastreet, where Mihai listed “escort and massage” services and required cash deposits. The couple, from Ilford, Essex, operated with Dumitru waiting in a car while Mihai entered the victim’s home. GBL, a date-rape drug that converts to GHB in the body, was used without dosage control, creating a high risk of fatal overdose.
Timeline
- 20 Aug 2024 – King contacts Mihai via Vivastreet and meets at his home.
- Aug 2024 – King is drugged, his Rolex is stolen and he dies shortly after the couple leave.
- 12 Jul 2025 – Mouat contacts Mihai; the pair meet the next day.
- 13 Jul 2025 – Mouat is found dead the following morning.
- 31 Jul 2025 – Police stop the couple’s BMW, recover stolen items and arrest them.
- Aug 2026 – Sentencing hearing results in 17-year terms for both defendants.
Data & Statistics
- Victims drugged: 4 men
- Fatalities: 2 (King and Mouat)
- Survivors: 2 (unidentified)
- Items stolen: watches (including a Rolex valued up to £14,500), jewellery, cash (amounts undisclosed)
- Sentences: 17 years each, with a minimum term of two-thirds before release
Official Statements & Responses
Prosecutor Julian Evans KC called the scheme “calculated, predatory” and noted the pair relied on victims’ embarrassment to avoid reports. Senior Crown Prosecutor Charles White said the case was “unique,” with no other linked deaths identified. Detective Inspector Adam Stacey (Gloucestershire Police) urged any other potential victims to contact police, assuring “sensitive and discreet” handling.
On-the-Ground Reports
Family impact statements highlighted profound loss. Jacky Seagroatt, King’s sister, said she was haunted by his death. Gary Mouat’s nine-year-old son asked why the killers “had to kill my daddy” when they could have simply taken the money.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Police have not identified additional victims beyond the four known cases, and the Crown offered no evidence for a fifth alleged victim. Investigators continue to appeal for information from men who may have encountered the couple.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Put simply, the defendants were willing to act in this way out of greed,” — Mr Evans
- “She asked me to relay to the court her shock, shame and sorrow for the terrible harm that has been caused,” — Elouise Marshall KC
What’s Next
Thames Valley and Gloucestershire police continue to encourage anyone who believes they were approached by Mihai or Dumitru to come forward, emphasizing confidential treatment of reports.
