Disturbing jailhouse confession becomes centerpiece of 'House of Horrors' death penalty trial The three-hour recorded confession paints a grisly portrait of sex-trafficking and murder. Defense attorney counters, 'It's all a hoax.' Author: Anne Schindler Updated: 12:08 AM EDT April 8, 2021 JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — “Frighteningly real.” That’s how the lead detective in the case against accused killer Russell Tillis described the details of the alleged crime. Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Detective Dennis Sullivan, testifying Wednesday at Tillis’ death penalty trial, called the case “the most shocking” of his 20-year career. Tillis is accused of the first-degree murder of 30-year-old Joni Gunter, whose dismembered remains were found buried in his Southside backyard. He is also charged with kidnapping, sex trafficking and abuse of a dead body for allegedly dismembering Gunter after killing her.