Onlyfans Star Faces Murder Trial After $11K Fetish Session Turns Fatal

  • By Nico
  • Sept. 13, 2025, 6:55 p.m.

Tragedy in Escondido: OnlyFans Model in the Spotlight

A high-profile case is unfolding in San Diego County, where OnlyFans creator Michaela Rylaarsdam faces a murder charge following the death of her client, Michael Dale, during a paid fetish session. The incident, which probes the thin line between consensual activities and criminal accountability, has caught the public's eye as it touches on rarely-explored legal territory.

In April 2023, police arrived at a residence in Escondido to find Rylaarsdam attempting CPR on 56-year-old Dale, who was later declared brain-dead at the hospital. He was taken off life support shortly after. Despite the incident occurring over a year ago, it wasn't until recently that Rylaarsdam was arrested and is currently in custody without bail, awaiting her arraignment scheduled for September 27.

The $11,000 Session That Went Too Far

Court documents reveal that Dale paid $11,000 for a prearranged fetish session, where he reportedly requested to be "wrapped like a mummy" in saran wrap, have women's boots glued to his feet, and adhesive applied to his eyelids. However, prosecutors claim the situation escalated beyond these requests. Allegations state Dale was discovered with duct tape and a plastic bag over his head, in addition to layers of wrap tightly encircling his neck.

"No evidence was found showing Dale consented to having a bag placed over his head," detectives noted, emphasizing the critical point of contention in the case.

Detectives and Defense Present Their Cases

Testimonies from law enforcement add more complexity to the case. Detective Chris Zack presented text messages and payments linking the encounter to the date of the incident. Moreover, Dale's roommate, Andrew Smith, testified about hearing Dale's pleas to stop, offering more money for his release before police were called.

Rylaarsdam's defense highlights her cooperation with authorities, noting she performed CPR and remained at the scene. Yet, the prosecution underscores toxicology reports indicating Dale's high blood alcohol level and existing medical conditions that could have led to asphyxiation. Rylaarsdam has denied using a plastic bag in the manner described by investigators.

The Legal Battle Ahead

As Rylaarsdam prepares for trial, the court remains undecided on the murder degree, leaving it to a jury to determine if the concept of implied malice fits. This legal theory suggests that a person can be held liable for murder if they engage in actions so perilous that death is a foreseeable consequence. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the legal complexities surrounding consensual but risky activities.

With the trial looming, critical questions persist about the boundaries of consent, control of the scene, and at what moment a consensual act veers into a fatal territory.

Nico
Author: Nico
Nico

Nico

Nico tracks the pulse of SoCal creator culture - from WeHo nights to TikTok mornings. He chases viral moments, fan deals, collabs, and live events with fast, human coverage. Expect Q&As, “Hot Now” briefs, and field notes that tell you what’s popping and why it matters. If it’s trending by noon, Nico had it at breakfast.