Fla. Matriarch Bawled After Conviction for Masterminding Murder of Ex-Son-in-Law — and Judge Wasn’t Sympathetic

Florida Matriarch Breaks Down in Tears After Conviction for Orchestrating Murder of Former Son-in-Law

In a courtroom drama that gripped the nation, Donna Adelson, a 75-year-old matriarch from Florida, has been found guilty of masterminding the murder of her ex-son-in-law, Daniel Markel, in 2014. The emotional trial concluded with Donna being convicted of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and solicitation of murder for the death of Daniel Markel, a Florida State University law professor.

The tragic events unfolded in Tallahassee, where Markel was shot dead in a murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by Donna Adelson. The motive behind the heinous crime was rooted in a bitter custody dispute between Markel and Donna’s daughter, Wendi Adelson. The dispute arose when Markel opposed Wendi’s plans to relocate with their two sons to South Florida, where the Adelson family resided.

As the verdict was announced by Florida Second Judicial Circuit Judge Stephen Everett, Donna Adelson’s reaction was intense. She cried out in disbelief and began sobbing uncontrollably in the courtroom. Judge Everett sternly instructed her to compose herself, but Donna’s emotional outburst continued, prompting the judge to clear the courtroom and grant her a two-minute break to regain her composure.

The intricate web of deceit and betrayal surrounding Markel’s murder revealed a family saga fraught with tension, secrets, and resentment. The prosecution argued that Donna Adelson, a member of a wealthy dental practice-owning family, orchestrated and financed the contract killing of Markel, allegedly costing over $100,000. Her deep-seated animosity towards Markel stemmed from his refusal to allow the children to relocate across the state.

The ripple effects of Markel’s murder extended beyond Donna Adelson, as her son, Charlie Adelson, along with Katherine Magbanua and two hired hitmen, were also implicated and found guilty in connection with the murder-for-hire scheme. The dark saga culminated in Donna Adelson’s arrest in 2023, just as she and her husband were attempting to flee the country. Despite pleading not guilty, Donna now faces a potential life sentence for her involvement in the chilling crime.

Markel’s grieving parents, who have endured the pain of losing their son in such a brutal manner, expressed their desire for Donna to face the consequences of her actions. Phil Markel, Daniel’s father, delivered a poignant statement in court, wishing for Donna to contemplate the harm she has caused and asking her, “Was it worth it?” The emotional toll of the trial underscored the depth of betrayal and tragedy that engulfed the families involved.

As the legal proceedings continue and the sentencing looms, the echoes of Daniel Markel’s untimely death reverberate through the courtroom, serving as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of familial strife turned deadly. The quest for justice remains at the forefront, as the community grapples with the aftermath of a crime that shattered lives and exposed the darkest depths of human nature.

The courtroom drama surrounding Donna Adelson’s conviction for orchestrating the murder of her former son-in-law has captivated the nation, shedding light on the complexities of familial relationships and the harrowing consequences of unresolved conflicts. As the legal saga reaches its conclusion, the legacy of Daniel Markel endures as a testament to a life tragically cut short and a family torn apart by betrayal and greed.