DefenseDefense team (Magbanua)

Christopher DeCoste

Defense attorney for Katherine Magbanua in both the 2019 Garcia–Magbanua joint trial and the 2022 Magbanua retrial.

AppearedGarcia–Magbanua Magbanua Retrial

8,718 lines·225 proceedings·2 trials

About

Christopher DeCoste represented Katherine Magbanua in her 2019 joint trial and 2022 retrial. He questioned investigators, analysts, forensic witnesses, and Rivera about cooperation benefits, changing recollections, unrecorded interviews, investigative gaps, and assumptions underlying trajectory, cell-site, financial, and surveillance evidence. He emphasized that phone records could not establish precise locations or communication content, that financial reviews could not identify every cash source or exclude nightclub income, and that physical evidence did not establish why Markel’s arm was raised. DeCoste also examined defense witnesses, introduced maps, call records, bank excerpts, and text messages, and litigated the permitted uses of Apple records, wiretap calls, and undercover recordings. In the 2019 closing, he argued that proof of the homicide did not itself prove Magbanua’s knowing involvement; the jury later deadlocked on all charges against her, and Judge Hankinson declared a mistrial. At her 2022 retrial, jurors found Magbanua guilty on all three counts.

Trial Record (225)

GMGarcia–MagbanuaSep 26, 2019 – Oct 11, 2019

Christopher DeCoste defended Katherine Magbanua by challenging the investigation's reliance on Luis Rivera and the inferences drawn from financial, phone, wiretap, and employment evidence. In closing, he argued that the State had proved the homicide but not Magbanua's knowing involvement; jurors later deadlocked on every charge against her, and Judge Hankinson declared a mistrial as to her.

Day 1

Sep 26, 2019

ProceduralTrial Procedures and Sequestration Rulings5lines spoken

Summary

The court addressed exhibit procedures, denied a motion concerning the Dolce vita video, and ruled on witness sequestration before openings.

DirectJames Geiger - DirectJames GeigerGeorgia Cappleman11lines spoken

Summary

Neighbor James Geiger described hearing a loud bang, seeing a light-colored vehicle leave Markel's driveway, and finding Markel injured in his running car before calling 911.

sidebarObjections to Identification PhotographsDuring James Geiger - Direct5lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed photographs offered for identification, including a family photograph challenged as prejudicial and a Prius aerial photograph questioned for authentication.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia Cappleman10lines spoken

Summary

Forensic specialist Joanne Maltese documented scene evidence, vehicle and hospital photographs, and the limits of fingerprint recovery; the court overruled an objection to a hospital photograph.

sidebarObjection to Bloodied PhotographDuring Joanne Maltese - Direct1line spoken

Summary

Counsel challenged a photograph depicting substantial blood on Mr. Markel's face as unfairly prejudicial, while the State said it would assist later medical testimony.

DirectWilliam Kornegay - DirectWilliam KornegayGeorgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

Forensic specialist William Kornegay testified that no casings were found and authenticated two projectile exhibits collected after Mr. Markel's autopsy.

DirectRobert Shawn Yao - DirectRobert Shawn YaoGeorgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

Yao's conditional bullet-path opinion favoring a taller shooter prompted a disclosure objection; the court ordered a defense deposition before recalling him.

sidebarDisputed Trajectory Opinion ChangeDuring Robert Shawn Yao - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether a witness could offer a trajectory opinion after reviewing additional materials, including an opinion favoring a taller shooter.

DirectAnthony Clark - DirectAnthony ClarkGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

Dr. Anthony Clark described the autopsy findings, two gunshot wounds, range and glass-related injury indicators, and his homicide determination.

DirectLen Harvey - DirectLen HarveyGeorgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

Harvey authenticated Premier surveillance video, and the court admitted State's Exhibit 124 without objection.

CrossAndrew Brown - CrossAndrew BrownSaam Zangeneh6lines spoken

Summary

Brown described limited visibility of Prius occupants and said the jury video was an altered, annotated version; the court reserved on a defense discovery objection.

sidebarEnhanced Version Discovery ObjectionDuring Andrew Brown - Cross4lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel objected that an enhanced version had not been provided and sought a Richardson hearing before testimony about marked alterations.

DirectMichael Dillmore - DirectMichael DillmoreAnna Norris12lines spoken

Summary

Digital-forensics investigator Michael Dillmore authenticated Apple iCloud reports and extracted materials; the court overruled a hearsay objection to contact-entry testimony.

sidebariCloud Contact Entry and Phone LinkDuring Michael Dillmore - Direct7lines spoken

Summary

The parties debated whether an iCloud phone-number contact entry could be used to show a connection and how the number would be linked to Ms. Magbanua.

CrossMichael Dillmore - CrossMichael DillmoreChristopher DeCoste65lines spoken

Summary

Dillmore described the limits of his iCloud-data review and said he generally left analysis to investigators; the court curtailed further questioning about Magbanua's own iCloud data.

DirectMarcia Rodriguez - DirectMarcia RodriguezAnna Norris7lines spoken

Summary

Rodriguez authenticated a Cellebrite extraction from wendi Adelson's phone; the court excluded the full report but admitted selected contact, call-log, and voice-mail extracts over objection.

sidebarPhone Contacts and Call LogsDuring Marcia Rodriguez - Direct7lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed hearsay concerns over phone contacts and logs, including entries connected to Daniel Markel and calls on the date of the homicide.

Voir DireAndrew Brown - Voir DireAndrew BrownSaam Zangeneh9lines spoken

Summary

Brown confirmed the bus footage was the same material provided in 2014, and the court admitted Exhibit 173 while setting next-morning hearings on Yao's opinion and Video No. 125.

Day 2

Sep 27, 2019

ProceduralYao Daubert Ruling and Rivera-Attorney Depositions16lines spoken

Summary

The court allowed Yao's trajectory testimony, ordered same-day depositions of Rivera's attorneys, and denied a renewed severance motion.

CrossRobert Shawn Yao - CrossRobert Shawn YaoChristopher DeCoste20lines spoken

Summary

Yao said his taller-shooter opinion relied on assumptions and could not be stated with 100 percent certainty.

DirectCraig Isom - DirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman33lines spoken

Summary

Lead investigator Craig Isom traced surveillance, toll, rental, Facebook, and phone records as the State connected a Prius rental to Luis Rivera and the defendants' alleged network.

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomSaam Zangeneh7lines spoken

Summary

Isom acknowledged surveillance and vehicle-identification limits, discussed rental and phone-record gaps, and identified one short Garcia-Harvey Adelson call.

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomChristopher DeCoste286lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua's counsel challenged Isom's investigative theory, an unrecorded Rivera interview, and gaps in efforts to trace Magbanua's cash and reported employment.

RedirectCraig Isom - RedirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman25lines spoken

Summary

Isom addressed financial and Prius-identification records, explained why Rivera's first cooperation interview was not recorded, and answered juror questions about the investigation.

RecrossCraig Isom - RecrossCraig IsomChristopher DeCoste39lines spoken

Summary

Isom acknowledged that his report did not explain why Rivera's September 30 cooperation interview was unrecorded.

DirectRonald Witt - DirectRonald WittAnna Norris3lines spoken

Summary

T-Mobile custodian Ronald Witt authenticated tower-dump records, and State's Exhibit 139 was admitted without objection.

ProceduralWendi Adelson Immunity and Cross-Examination TimingWendi Adelson9lines spoken

Summary

The court compelled Wendi Adelson's testimony under use immunity and ordered that her examination be completed that day.

ProceduralWendi Adelson Immunity Instruction and End-of-Day Logistics5lines spoken

Day 3

Oct 1, 2019

ProceduralRivera-Attorney Privilege and Brannon Sequestration Issues3lines spoken

Summary

The court reserved the Rivera-attorney privilege dispute and denied defense sequestration requests concerning Officer Brannon.

CrossThomas Balboni - CrossThomas BalboniChristopher DeCoste6lines spoken

Summary

Balboni confirmed the pawn form fingerprint matched Garcia's right thumbprint and did not include Magbanua's fingerprints.

Jury QuestionsThomas Balboni - Juror QuestionsThomas BalboniJames C. Hankinson3lines spoken

Summary

Balboni answered juror questions about the date Garcia's fingerprints were taken and fingerprint longevity.

Jury QuestionsLen Harvey - Juror QuestionsLen HarveyJames C. Hankinson3lines spoken

Summary

Harvey explained the camera labels and business layout, then answered a brief follow-up about monitoring and parking-lot staffing.

CrossBill Brannon - CrossBill BrannonChristopher DeCoste49lines spoken

Summary

Brannon acknowledged limits in identifying the van and its occupant; the judge later instructed jurors not to discredit witnesses for speaking with attorneys.

Jury QuestionsBill Brannon - Juror Question Follow-up by MagbanuaBill BrannonChristopher DeCoste8lines spoken

Summary

Brannon said he knew Ms. Adelson's vehicle color before seeing the van and could not say when his report was reviewed.

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman7lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse testified about statements he attributed to Ms. Adelson concerning the relocation dispute, a celebration dinner, and his travel at the time of the homicide.

CrossJeffrey Lacasse - CrossJeffrey LacasseChristopher DeCoste51lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse described how investigators verified his Tennessee whereabouts and acknowledged limits on his knowledge of Wendi Adelson's schedule and the reported statement's scope.

Jury QuestionsJeffrey Lacasse - Juror QuestionsJeffrey LacasseJames C. Hankinson6lines spoken

Summary

The court excluded one proposed juror question, and Lacasse answered brief follow-up questions about email accounts, custody discussions, and his vehicle.

CrossSteven Lutes - CrossSteven LutesSaam Zangeneh3lines spoken

Summary

Lutes said the ATM video showed an apparent transaction but could not identify its type or the vehicle's movements beyond the recorded footage.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittAnna Norris8lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt explained the phone-record and tower-dump analysis that identified Garcia's number and showed Magbanua as his most frequent contact, while stressing that cell-site analysis provides only a general location.

sidebarObjection to Unreviewed Jury DisplayDuring Christopher Corbitt - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel objected to material proposed for display to the jury because it had not been provided for review.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste35lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt agreed that phone-frequency records did not reveal communication content or capture connections outside the available records.

sidebarJuror Questions About Phone Evidence3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel discussed objections to juror questions about a phone number on a demonstrative and other phone activity that could contact a cell tower.

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraSaam Zangeneh3lines spoken

Summary

Garcia's counsel tested Rivera's gang connections, criminal history, prior statements, and recollection of the Tallahassee trips; the court set limits on several lines of questioning.

Day 4

Oct 2, 2019

CrossJonathan Grossman - CrossJonathan GrossmanChristopher DeCoste31lines spoken

Summary

Grossman identified the Prius photograph totals and said he did not recall details of a black Lexus inquiry.

CrossKeith Leland - CrossKeith LelandChristopher DeCoste16lines spoken

Summary

Leland described the preschool's attendance-record practices and acknowledged occasional missing parent signatures.

Jury QuestionsKeith Leland - Juror QuestionsKeith LelandJames C. Hankinson4lines spoken

Summary

Leland said the observed Prius was on preschool property and differed in color from a parent's Prius; police contacted the preschool.

Jury QuestionsKeith Leland - Juror Questions (Resumed)Keith LelandJames C. Hankinson3lines spoken

Summary

The court released Keith Leland after no further questions and took a 10-minute recess.

CrossShoddrick Nobles - CrossShoddrick NoblesChristopher DeCoste40lines spoken

Summary

DeCoste challenged Nobles's account of an unidentified woman, cocaine acquisition, and his probation history; Nobles denied knowing whether he received favorable treatment.

CrossElizabeth Richey - CrossElizabeth RicheyChristopher DeCoste32lines spoken

Summary

Richey said a firearm later submitted for testing did not fire the two bullets she examined.

ProceduralTrial Scheduling and Lesser-Included-Offense Issue5lines spoken

Day 5

Oct 3, 2019

ProceduralEvidentiary Rulings and Jury-Instruction Conference5lines spoken

Summary

The court limited the evidentiary ruling to drug dealing, approved lesser-included homicide instructions, tailored the firearm instruction to Garcia, and deferred other instruction questions.

DirectJune Umchinda - DirectJune UmchindaGeorgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

June Umchinda described Charlie Adelson's behavior and cash at his residence, then acknowledged a prior interview discussion of stapled money.

CrossJune Umchinda - CrossJune UmchindaChristopher DeCoste56lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua's counsel questioned Umchinda about her law-enforcement interview, emotions toward Charles Adelson, media exposure, and knowledge of Magbanua's work.

Jury QuestionsJune Umchinda - Juror QuestionsJune UmchindaJames C. Hankinson3lines spoken

Summary

June Umchinda said she recently exchanged text messages with Charlie Adelson before traveling to court.

DirectClariza Lebredo - DirectClariza LebredoAnna Norris5lines spoken

Summary

Lebredo described Adelson Institute staffing and payroll practices and said Magbanua was known to her only as a patient.

CrossClariza Lebredo - CrossClariza LebredoChristopher DeCoste11lines spoken

Summary

Lebredo said she did not know of any Adelson Institute employees working by phone.

DirectErika Johnson - DirectErika JohnsonAnna Norris8lines spoken

Summary

Erika Johnson described Adelson Institute operations and a recorded call with Charlie Adelson after law enforcement sought Katherine Magbanua's personnel records.

CrossErika Johnson - CrossErika JohnsonChristopher DeCoste35lines spoken

Summary

Johnson said she was unsure whether Magbanua worked at the Adelson Institute and described remote record access and cash-payment discounts.

RedirectErika Johnson - RedirectErika JohnsonAnna Norris11lines spoken

Summary

Johnson explained why she called Charlie Adelson about requested records as the court admitted and published State's Exhibit 180.

RecrossErika Johnson - RecrossErika JohnsonChristopher DeCoste6lines spoken

Summary

Johnson agreed that subpoenaed records existed and were provided within 20 days.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittAnna Norris17lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt mapped June and July phone, rental, and GPS records, while the court addressed defense complaints about late-disclosed demonstrative material.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - Direct (Recall, Part 2)Christopher CorbittAnna Norris5lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt mapped July travel, handset locations, and call activity through phone, GPS, bank, and video records, while explaining limits in the available data.

ProceduralTraffic Citation and Cell-Site Demonstrative Rulings10lines spoken

Summary

The court withheld a late-disclosed traffic citation from admission and marked cell-site demonstratives as court exhibits for the record only.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste289lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt acknowledged limits in the State's cell-site analysis and phone-record summaries as the defense introduced call-record exhibits and disputed several communication inferences.

ProceduraliCloud Evidence, Sequestration, and Wiretap Rulings4lines spoken

Summary

The court allowed defense use of iCloud-record material, ordered an inquiry into reported sequestration violations, and explained its earlier recording ruling.

Day 6

Oct 4, 2019

ProceduralGarcia Traffic Citation Richardson Ruling6lines spoken

Summary

The court denied exclusion of Garcia's traffic citation after finding a discovery violation but no willful violation or prejudice.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - Cross (Continued)Christopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste115lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt acknowledged limits in the available cell-site records as the defense introduced a Cellebrite timeline and explored alternative communication methods.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittAnna Norris15lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt clarified the limits and interpretation of phone records, and the court admitted a June 2014 traffic citation tied to Garcia.

ProceduralRivera Phone-Number Relevance Ruling22lines spoken

Summary

The court overruled a relevance objection to evidence of Magbanua's attempted calls to the number Rivera identified as his.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - Redirect (Recall, Part 2)Christopher CorbittAnna Norris11lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt described attempted calls from Magbanua's handset and testified that his record review did not show direct communication between Charlie Adelson and Garcia.

Jury QuestionsChristopher Corbitt - Juror Questions (Recall)Christopher CorbittJames C. Hankinson6lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt answered juror questions about deleted iCloud messages and limits in the available phone-location records.

DirectMary Hull - DirectMary HullAnna Norris30lines spoken

Summary

Financial investigator Mary Hull authenticated financial records and summaries, testified about vehicle purchases and banking patterns, and described Adelson Institute payments to Katherine Magbanua.

ProceduralMagbanua Employment-Record Exhibit and Privacy Rulings10lines spoken

Summary

The court resolved an objection to State's Exhibit 63 and ordered Magbanua's social security number sealed from public display.

DirectMary Hull - Direct (Part 2)Mary HullAnna Norris20lines spoken

Summary

Mary Hull described financial records concerning payments to Katherine Magbanua, her surgery and employment records, and a cash-deposit analysis; the court limited some text evidence and admitted the amended exhibit set.

CrossMary Hull - CrossMary HullChristopher DeCoste217lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua's counsel tested limits in Hull's financial analysis, introduced bank-record excerpts, and disputed proposed text-message exhibits.

ProceduralMagbanua Text-Message Exhibit Rulings10lines spoken

Summary

The court admitted two defense text-message exhibits and excluded four others after hearsay objections.

CrossMary Hull - Cross (Part 2)Mary HullChristopher DeCoste45lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua's counsel challenged the scope of Hull's financial analysis with employment-related texts and a possible nightclub-income explanation.

RedirectMary Hull - RedirectMary HullAnna Norris24lines spoken

Summary

Hull defended aspects of her financial analysis, and the court admitted a redacted text-message exhibit after resolving a context objection.

RecrossMary Hull - RecrossMary HullChristopher DeCoste10lines spoken

Summary

Hull acknowledged she could not determine the full context of text messages in Government 184.

DirectOscar Jimenez Jr. - DirectOscar Jimenez Jr.Georgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Oscar Jimenez Jr. authenticated recordings of a 2016 undercover contact with Donna Adelson and testified that Charles Adelson later called the covert number.

CrossOscar Jimenez Jr. - CrossOscar Jimenez Jr.Christopher DeCoste53lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel tested the undercover bump's planning, Jimenez's memory of the flyer, and the absence of the original flyer.

ProceduralEnd-of-Day Jury Instructions and Trial Schedule4lines spoken

Summary

The court instructed jurors not to discuss the case and set an 8:45 a.m. Monday return, with the anticipated trial schedule discussed.

ProceduralGang-Expert, Wiretap, and Dolce Vita Rulings4lines spoken

Summary

The court deferred the gang-expert decision, set a process for individual wiretap rulings, allowed the Dolce Vita undercover conversation subject to transcript foundation, and ordered wiretap materials shared before Monday.

Day 7

Oct 7, 2019

ProceduralWiretap and Dolce Vita Transcript Rulings40lines spoken

Summary

The court issued extensive wiretap admissibility rulings, excluded an accompanying transcript for one recording, and the State chose the original Dolce Vita audio over an ineffective enhancement.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste75lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt described real-time wiretap records and monitoring limits as the defense questioned which phones and communications the investigation did not capture.

sidebar2016 Call Records ClarificationDuring Christopher Corbitt - Cross7lines spoken

Summary

Counsel raised concern that testimony about 2016 call-detail records could imply records existed beyond early 2016, then withdrew the issue.

DirectPatrick Sanford - DirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman25lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Patrick Sanford described the investigation, Rivera-proffer corroboration, and the undercover operation whose recorded calls were played for the jury.

sidebarObjection to Unredacted LanguageDuring Patrick Sanford - Direct4lines spoken

Summary

Counsel objected to unredacted language in a document, arguing it could be viewed negatively by some jurors.

Voir DirePatrick Sanford - Voir Dire (Christopher DeCoste)Patrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste55lines spoken

Summary

Sanford said his work with difficult recordings rested on experience and repeated listening rather than specialized training or certification.

ProceduralGarcia FBI Interview ProfferPatrick Sanford5lines spoken

Summary

The court overruled objections to a redacted FBI interview of Mr. Garcia, denied renewed severance, and paused for defense review of the transcript.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 4)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

The jury heard Garcia's recorded FBI interview, including his request for an attorney, and Sanford described Garcia's arrest the following evening in a black Lexus.

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordSaam Zangeneh5lines spoken

Summary

Garcia's counsel questioned Sanford about Rivera interview records, unsuccessful gun searches, and phone evidence from the undercover bump operation.

ProceduralClosing-Argument, Wiretap, and Penalty-Phase Logistics10lines spoken

Summary

The court addressed admitted wiretap transcripts, closing-argument limits, scheduling, and preparation for possible penalty-phase mitigation.

Day 8

Oct 8, 2019

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste1highlight920lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua's counsel challenged Agent Sanford on Rivera's role, investigative gaps, the undercover bump, and the unrecorded Rivera proffer.

Highlights (1)

rulingThe judge warned DeCoste that further discussion of the suppressed Donna and Charlie Adelson wiretaps could cause the court to reconsider its earlier ruling.Open in transcript →

sidebarFacebook Photo Impeachment DisputeDuring Patrick Sanford - Cross7lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether a Facebook photograph supported impeachment concerning when the person was working.

sidebarPossible Undisclosed Agent MeetingDuring Patrick Sanford - Cross3lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel raised lack of notice and documentation concerning a possible meeting between an agent and Whitney.

sidebarUse of Adelson CallsDuring Patrick Sanford - Cross4lines spoken

Summary

Counsel discussed using limited portions of calls to impeach an investigator while preserving the prior hearsay objection.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - RedirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

The State briefly clarified the Club Fate check's memo line on redirect as the court ruled on two objections.

RecrossPatrick Sanford - RecrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste3lines spoken

Summary

Sanford agreed that eight April work nights would equal about $123 per night; the court overruled an objection during follow-up about the Club Fate check.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman11lines spoken

Summary

Sanford addressed cash records and Magbanua's claimed employment; after a sidebar ruling, the court admitted a text-message exhibit.

sidebarRedirect Text Messages and FoundationDuring Patrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)4lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed the State's use of previously authenticated text messages on redirect concerning the witness's investigation and Magbanua's employment.

RecrossPatrick Sanford - RecrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste3lines spoken

Summary

Sanford said the caller never used the name Katie, and the court declined to revisit its ruling on three calls.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman9lines spoken

Summary

Sanford addressed communications, Rivera's residence information, and investigative follow-up; the court upheld rulings concerning Magbanua's arrest procedure and Call I of State's Exhibit 138.

sidebarArrest Procedure TestimonyDuring Patrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)1line spoken

Summary

Counsel discussed a motion-in-limine concern about investigative-opinion testimony and the defense's treatment of the arrest.

RecrossPatrick Sanford - RecrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste6lines spoken

Summary

Sanford confirmed the wording of State's Exhibit 185, and the court barred speculation about its meaning.

sidebarJuror Questions on Financial Records12lines spoken

Summary

At sidebar, the court and counsel reviewed juror questions about financial records, employment, searches for the gun, an arrest, and calls to an undercover number.

Jury QuestionsPatrick Sanford - Juror Question Follow-up by MagbanuaPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste18lines spoken

Summary

Sanford answered Magbanua's follow-up questions about nightclub records, an undercover text, and arrest-related matters.

CrossLouis Bronstein - CrossLouis BronsteinChristopher DeCoste15lines spoken

Summary

Bronstein could not say he saw Charles Adelson show Katherine Magbanua a paper consistent with Government's 120.

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomChristopher DeCoste6lines spoken

Summary

The court sustained an objection limiting proposed cross-examination about Luis Rivera's 2016 meeting.

sidebarJuror Question and Mistrial Motion9lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed how to address a juror's question after an objection to a follow-up question about a call from Charles Adelson's attorney.

sidebarTax Summary Exhibit Objections6lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed proposed summary exhibits of Katherine Magbanua's tax information and defense objections concerning late disclosure and potential prejudice.

DirectMary Hull - Direct (Recall)Mary HullAnna Norris5lines spoken

Summary

Hull authenticated Magbanua's tax returns and compared reported income with cash deposits; she also described Garcia's tax filings.

CrossMary Hull - Cross (Recall)Mary HullChristopher DeCoste21lines spoken

Summary

Hull acknowledged gaps in the reviewed records and limits on whether they could rule out Magbanua's nightclub employment.

CrossJohn Sawicki - CrossJohn SawickiChristopher DeCoste12lines spoken

Summary

Sawicki explained that phones do not necessarily use the nearest cell tower and may communicate from miles away.

DirectMichael Dillmore - DirectMichael DillmoreChristopher DeCoste48lines spoken

Summary

Dillmore confirmed phone-extraction and shared-contact records; the court allowed the initial questioning but barred speculation about whether messages were with Luis Rivera.

sidebarPhone Records Relevance ObjectionDuring Michael Dillmore - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel discussed whether the email, phone records, and extracted messages sufficiently connected the communications to the asserted participants.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste34lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt addressed limits in cell-site evidence, a stipulated preschool schedule, and competing explanations for Magbanua's July 19 handset activity.

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinChristopher DeCoste157lines spoken

Summary

Jason Newlin described a gun search based on limited information, acknowledged an improper approach to questioning Juan Marcos Vega, and faced defense questions about unrecorded interviews.

sidebarDispute Over Negotiation PrivilegeDuring Jason Newlin - Direct4lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether a prior discussion with Katherine Magbanua could be used for impeachment or was protected as negotiation-related.

sidebarVega Statements and HearsayDuring Jason Newlin - Direct4lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether statements concerning Juan Marcos Vega could be used to challenge how the investigation was conducted.

RedirectJason Newlin - RedirectJason NewlinChristopher DeCoste2lines spoken

Summary

Newlin agreed that only Rivera and Rivera's attorney knew what occurred in the referenced room.

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Recall)Craig IsomChristopher DeCoste61lines spoken

Summary

DeCoste recalled Isom to test what Luis Rivera did—and did not—say in the unrecorded September 30 meeting.

ProceduralRivera Apple Subscriber Record Ruling15lines spoken

Summary

The court admitted an Apple subscriber-information record offered to impeach Luis Rivera, but barred counsel from calling it a phone record for the listed number.

Day 9

Oct 9, 2019

ProceduralBennett Hearsay, Corbitt Sequestration, and Magbanua Testimony5lines spoken

Summary

The court excluded proposed Bennett impeachment testimony, addressed deliberation sequestration, and denied the State's request to exempt Sergeant Corbitt from sequestration during Magbanua's testimony.

ProceduralMagbanua Employment-Statement Ruling13lines spoken

Summary

The court excluded Magbanua's proposed employment and Lexus call excerpts after reversing an initial ruling, then preserved the calls as a proffer.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - Direct (Recall)Christopher CorbittAnna Norris5lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt authenticated four iCloud text-message exhibits and described records linking a Magbanua text to Garcia's first call to an auto shop number.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste102lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt authenticated defense iCloud-message exhibits about loans and payments between Magbanua and Adelson, while acknowledging the records did not show whether money was lent or repaid.

sidebarDisputed Texts and Wire CallDuring Christopher Corbitt - Cross20lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed defense text-message exhibits offered to address alleged loans, work for the Adelson Institute, and a night job, then revisited the hearsay issue for wire call J.

Day 10

Oct 10, 2019

ClosingClosing Argument - Christopher DeCosteChristopher DeCoste6highlights20lines spoken

Summary

DeCoste argued that the State had not proved Magbanua's involvement, attacked Rivera's credibility, and urged acquittal.

Highlights (6)

otherDeCoste opened Magbanua's defense closing by accepting that Dan Markel was murdered while arguing that the State had not proved Magbanua's individual involvement.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“The less you know, the better.”— Christopher DeCosteDeCoste used this recorded statement as the organizing theme for his argument that Magbanua lacked knowledge of the alleged plot.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

impeachmentDeCoste attacked Luis Rivera as the only witness he said directly implicated Magbanua, arguing that Rivera's account conflicted with phone, location, and school-record evidence and that his cooperation benefits gave him a motive to lie.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

otherDeCoste concluded by asking jurors to find Magbanua not involved in the murder or charged conspiracy and to let her return home.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Show all 6 highlights

Quote“Luis Rivera was the shooter.”— Christopher DeCosteThe defense directly disputed Rivera's account and framed him as the person responsible for the shooting.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“Katherine Magbanua is innocent.”— Christopher DeCosteThis was DeCoste's central conclusion and request for an acquittal.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ProceduralDeliberation Evidence and Penalty-Phase Logistics3lines spoken

Jury InstructionJury Question - Cell-Tower Demonstrative4lines spoken

Day 11

Oct 11, 2019

ProceduralMagbanua Mistrial Scheduling and Representation7lines spoken

Summary

The court moved to declare a mistrial as to Ms. Magbanua and set October 22 case management, including an update on defense representation.

VerdictKatherine Magbanua Jury Deadlock Confirmation

Summary

The jury reported it could not reach unanimity on any charge against Ms. Magbanua.

ProceduralMagbanua Mistrial Declaration and Garcia Sentencing Jury Logistics1line spoken

Summary

The court declared a mistrial as to Ms. Magbanua and scheduled the jury to return Monday for further Garcia proceedings.

KMMagbanua RetrialMay 18, 2022 – May 27, 2022

Christopher DeCoste cross-examined key State witnesses for the defense, focusing on Luis Rivera's changing recollections and cooperation, the limits of phone-location analysis, and alternative explanations for financial and recorded evidence. He also examined defense witnesses and preserved hearsay, discovery, and recording objections while the court made separate admissibility rulings.

Day 1

May 18, 2022

ProceduralDay 1 pre-jury housekeeping — appearances, sequestration, and exhibit logistics10lines spoken

Summary

The court addressed a DNA stipulation, witness sequestration, expert access, and advance review of defense exhibits before the jury entered.

ProceduralRecess — Crawford Objection Flagged on Adelson Wiretap Calls4lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel flagged a Crawford objection to Adelson wiretap calls; the court deferred admissibility argument until the relevant witness.

DirectJames Geiger - DirectJames GeigerGeorgia Cappleman5lines spoken

Summary

Neighbor James Geiger described hearing a bang, seeing a light-colored vehicle leave Dan Markel's driveway, and later finding Markel bloodied in his running car.

Cross WaivedJames Geiger - Cross (Waived)James GeigerChristopher DeCoste1line spoken

Summary

The defense waived cross-examination of James Geiger, and the court released him.

Cross WaivedDavid Sims - Cross (Waived)David SimsChristopher DeCoste1line spoken

Summary

Defense waived cross-examination of David Sims, and he was released.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

Forensic specialist Joanne Maltese documented the scene, collected physical and DNA evidence, and authenticated photographs; a DNA stipulation reported no interpretable identification result.

CrossJoanne Maltese - CrossJoanne MalteseChristopher DeCoste5lines spoken

Summary

Maltese agreed that the referenced stippling could be consistent with Professor Markel raising his arm while being shot.

DirectAnthony Clark - DirectAnthony ClarkGeorgia Cappleman7lines spoken

Summary

Dr. Anthony Clark described Markel's autopsy, wound analysis, and recovered bullets, and testified that gunshot wounds to the face and head caused his death.

sidebarInjury Photograph AdmissibilityDuring Anthony Clark - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel raised a cumulative-evidence concern about photographs showing different angles of the same injury.

CrossAnthony Clark - CrossAnthony ClarkChristopher DeCoste24lines spoken

Summary

Clark said stippling supported an elevated arm but could not establish why it was raised, and he qualified the assumptions behind his trajectory opinions.

DirectBrock Dietz - DirectBrock DietzGeorgia Cappleman6lines spoken

Summary

Forensic video analyst Brock Dietz described preparing surveillance clips and stills; the court admitted the related Premier Gym, ATM, and bus exhibits.

Cross WaivedBrock Dietz - Cross (Waived)Brock DietzChristopher DeCoste1line spoken

Summary

Defense waived cross-examination of Brock Dietz, who was excused.

DirectCraig Isom - DirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman33lines spoken

Summary

Lead investigator Craig Isom traced the suspect Prius through surveillance, SunPass, rental, phone, and payment records, while the court admitted related exhibits and resolved several evidentiary objections.

sidebarClarification on Previously Provided MaterialsDuring Craig Isom - Direct6lines spoken

Summary

Counsel clarified that the materials had been available previously, and the defense withdrew its objection.

sidebarWitness Materials and RecollectionDuring Craig Isom - Direct1line spoken

Summary

The sidebar addressed whether a witness was consulting handwritten notes, reports, or both while testifying.

sidebarPhone-Call Sequence AdmissibilityDuring Craig Isom - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed whether testimony about phone calls following Magbanua's call could improperly suggest a connection between defendants.

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomChristopher DeCoste376lines spoken

Summary

Defense challenged the reliability of Luis Rivera's cooperation and the investigation's treatment of Adelson Institute payments, while Isom described an unrecorded proffer and maintained he found no documented work supporting the payments.

sidebarApril 15 Wiretap ImpeachmentDuring Craig Isom - Cross3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel sought to impeach testimony that no evidence showed Magbanua worked at the Adelson Institute by referring to a wiretap statement.

sidebarImmunity Offer QuestioningDuring Craig Isom - Cross3lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether proposed deposition-based questioning about a witness leaving jail improperly concerned an offer of immunity.

RedirectCraig Isom - RedirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman23lines spoken

Summary

Isom defended the investigation's reliance on Luis Rivera and disputed the claimed employment explanation for Adelson Institute payments; the court excluded reference to Magbanua's prior-trial testimony.

sidebarPrior-Trial Testimony QuestionDuring Craig Isom - Redirect4lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether a witness could be asked about the defendant's prior-trial testimony and whether that testimony could later be offered in the case.

sidebarDisputed iMessage Conversation OrderDuring Craig Isom - Redirect3lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel challenged the presentation of iMessages as combining communications from different days and times, while the prosecutor said the exhibit would be used for this line of questioning.

ProceduralEnd-of-Day Recess — Wendi Adelson Testimony Ruling and Day-Two Scheduling4lines spoken

Summary

The court limited Wendi Adelson's anticipated cross-examination to direct examination, addressed a potential Fifth Amendment invocation, and kept Craig Isom under subpoena and sequestration instructions.

Day 2

May 19, 2022

ProceduralDefense table request for Rivera cross-examination materials6lines spoken

Summary

The court agreed to provide the defense a larger table for cross-examination materials by lunchtime.

CrossMarcia Rodriguez - CrossMarcia RodriguezChristopher DeCoste13lines spoken

Summary

Cross-examination was postponed until Rodriguez could review documents tied to a proposed phone-download report before being recalled.

sidebarPhone Download AuthenticationDuring Marcia Rodriguez - Cross12lines spoken

Summary

Counsel discussed authenticating a phone-download report and postponing cross-examination so the witness could review the relevant documents.

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman21lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson testified about the divorce, family relocation concerns, Charlie Adelson's relationship with Katherine Magbanua, and her actions on the day Dan Markel was killed.

sidebarHearsay Documents and MotiveDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct1line spoken

Summary

Counsel addressed whether documents could be used for motive and raised concerns about statements being presented to the jury before objection.

CrossWendi Adelson - CrossWendi AdelsonChristopher DeCoste234lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson denied knowing who killed Professor Markel or being involved as defense counsel pressed her about Charles Adelson, the divorce, and her claimed avoidance of case coverage.

Cross WaivedMarcia Rodriguez - Cross (Waived)Marcia RodriguezChristopher DeCoste1line spoken

Cross WaivedBill Brannon - Cross (Waived)Bill BrannonChristopher DeCoste1line spoken

Summary

The defense waived cross-examination, and Officer Brannon was excused.

ProceduralPre-Rivera OJP — exhibit disclosure dispute and co-conspirator hearsay motion13lines spoken

Summary

The court resolved a defense-material disclosure dispute and allowed anticipated Rivera testimony subject to a preserved co-conspirator hearsay objection.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman9lines spoken

Summary

Rivera testified that Garcia shot Dan Markel and that Magbanua arranged and delivered payment for the murder-for-hire scheme.

CrossLuis Rivera - Cross (Part 1)Luis RiveraChristopher DeCoste548lines spoken

Summary

The defense challenged Rivera's credibility through his cooperation benefits, prior statements, and phone-record account; Rivera maintained that Magbanua and Garcia were involved.

ProceduralEnd-of-Day — Co-Conspirator Hearsay Dispute and Rivera Cross Logistics9lines spoken

Summary

The court deferred a co-conspirator hearsay admissibility decision, required further authority and independent-evidence support, and set logistics for continuing Rivera's cross-examination.

Day 3

May 20, 2022

ProceduralRivera Cross-Examination: Impeachment Clip and Transcript Protocol14lines spoken

CrossLuis Rivera - Cross (Part 2)Luis RiveraChristopher DeCoste268lines spoken

Summary

Defense challenged Rivera's shifting recollections about guns and trips; the court allowed impeachment over a prior reference to a third trip, while Rivera maintained Magbanua's involvement.

sidebarThird-Trip Impeachment DisputeDuring Luis Rivera - Cross (Part 2)4lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether the witness could be questioned about a prior reference to a third trip despite later saying there had been only two trips.

RedirectLuis Rivera - RedirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman13lines spoken

Summary

Rivera addressed credibility challenges, testified about an alleged call concerning money, reaffirmed two Tallahassee trips, and described a restaurant incident involving Garcia.

ProceduralMid-Morning Recess and Pre-Testimony Logistics6lines spoken

Summary

The court admitted State's Exhibit 85 without defense objection and clarified that only the underlying document—not a planned demonstrative—could go back to the jury.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittSarah Kathryn Dugan43lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt presented cell-phone, tower-dump, GPS, and rental-record analysis, while emphasizing that cell-site data shows coverage consistency rather than an exact handset location. The court admitted the main summary exhibit subject to objections and instructed jurors to disregard one disputed phone-number attribution.

sidebarCell-Phone Map PresentationDuring Christopher Corbitt - Direct12lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether a cell-phone map presentation was an admissible summary or an advocacy-oriented demonstrative, including how it described locations and communications.

sidebarDisputed Rivera Phone NumberDuring Christopher Corbitt - Direct9lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether the evidence supported identifying a phone number on a demonstrative as Luis Rivera's.

sidebarDisputed Phone Number AttributionDuring Christopher Corbitt - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether a phone number shown on a slide could be attributed to Anthony Ortiz without supporting records or direct testimony.

profferChristopher Corbitt - Defense Proffer ExaminationChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste42lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt said he could not conclusively link the "Tato" contact label to Luis Rivera or determine the source of differences in Apple-related records.

ProceduralOJP — Proffer on 'Tato' iCloud Contact / Richardson Hearing ArgumentChristopher Corbitt10lines spoken

Summary

Judge Wheeler allowed limited testimony about an iCloud contact and deferred any Richardson hearing unless the defense established that an Apple record had not been disclosed.

Day 4

May 23, 2022

ProceduralApple Records Discovery Dispute — Phone Number Attribution Ruling16lines spoken

Summary

The court allowed disputed Apple account records to be used, finding no discovery violation and ordering any unprovided related discovery produced by lunchtime.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste640lines spoken

Summary

Defense cross-examination emphasized that cell-site records show handset coverage consistency rather than exact locations, challenged filtered call summaries, and introduced maps and color-coded call records as Defense Exhibits 10 through 17.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - Cross (Continued)Christopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste34lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt clarified wiretap logging, recording, and minimization procedures as the defense explored app-based communications and limits of the records.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittSarah Kathryn Dugan19lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt clarified phone and cell-site records, described July 19 location inferences, and the court admitted two State exhibits while allowing limited prior-testimony audio.

DirectRamzi Naber - DirectRamzi NaberSarah Kathryn Dugan4lines spoken

Summary

Club Fate's former owner described its operations, Magbanua's brief work as a cocktail server, employee earnings, and the loss of office records to water damage.

CrossRamzi Naber - CrossRamzi NaberChristopher DeCoste76lines spoken

Summary

Naber acknowledged limits on his income estimates, memory, and access to Club Fate records; the court admitted a defense photograph of Magbanua.

Day 5

May 24, 2022

ProceduralPre-Testimony Motions: Exhibit 100 Ruling and Crawford Challenge to Adelson Wiretaps7lines spoken

Summary

The court admitted Exhibit 100 and denied the defense's Crawford challenge to Adelson wiretap calls.

DirectMary Hull - DirectMary HullSarah Kathryn Dugan8lines spoken

Summary

Financial investigator Mary Hull presented bank-record and employment analyses, including Magbanua's cash deposits, Adelson Institute checks, and Rivera's changing cash-withdrawal pattern.

ProceduralLunch Recess and Exhibit Preview — FBI Undercover Bump Calls5lines spoken

Summary

The court recessed for lunch, then deferred review of two proposed undercover-call exhibits pending receipt of the audio and later argument over their purpose and relevance.

CrossMary Hull - CrossMary HullChristopher DeCoste218lines spoken

Summary

Hull said her bank-record analysis could not identify cash sources; the court allowed Lexus-message questioning and admitted a defense bank-statement exhibit.

sidebarMessages Used to Challenge WitnessDuring Mary Hull - Cross3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether a witness who had testified about bank and employment records could be questioned about reviewed messages concerning a vehicle-registration exchange.

RedirectMary Hull - RedirectMary HullSarah Kathryn Dugan8lines spoken

Summary

Hull clarified revisions to her financial timeline and tax-record review; the court barred a proposed question about Donna Adelson's Fifth Amendment rights.

sidebarWitness Fifth Amendment ReferenceDuring Mary Hull - Redirect3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed a suggestion that a prospective witness had invoked the Fifth Amendment and requested a curative instruction.

CrossOscar Jimenez Jr. - CrossOscar Jimenez Jr.Christopher DeCoste36lines spoken

Summary

Jimenez agreed the FBI did not preserve an exact copy of the document given to Donna Adelson and said the undercover bump was designed to activate the wire.

ProceduralAfternoon Recess and Defense Notice of Unresponsive Subpoenaed Witness9lines spoken

CrossLouis Bronstein - CrossLouis BronsteinChristopher DeCoste11lines spoken

Summary

Bronstein said his assessment at Dolce Vita was limited to seeing Magbanua engaged in conversation with Charlie Adelson.

CrossJames Keith McElveen - CrossJames Keith McElveenChristopher DeCoste34lines spoken

Summary

McElveen said the later audio work was not rushed and qualified the precision of his recording-setup assessments.

ProceduralExhibit Mix-Up Corrected: Dolce Vita Recordings 114 and 116 Clarified Out of Jury11lines spoken

Summary

The court corrected a swap between Dolce Vita Exhibits 114 and 116, obtained a proffer identifying Exhibit 116, and directed the State to recall Bronstein to establish Exhibit 114.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 1)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman20lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Patrick Sanford described investigative follow-up, surveillance, and wiretap calls involving the Adelsons and Katherine Magbanua; the court admitted State's Exhibits 99 and 53.

ProceduralJury Sent Home — End-of-Day Housekeeping9lines spoken

Summary

The court sealed jail calls provided during trial, addressed language used before the jury, and discussed the projected schedule for the remaining evidence and closings.

Day 6

May 25, 2022

ProceduralPre-session ruling: FBI undercover bump calls (Exhibits 128 and 134) admitted over defense hearsay objection3lines spoken

Summary

The court admitted two FBI undercover-call exhibits over a defense hearsay objection, limiting them to context and the fact of contact.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 2)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman31lines spoken

Summary

Sanford described undercover recordings, the admitted letter used to prompt contact, and phone evidence; he testified that Magbanua had not called the undercover number and later used a burner phone.

sidebarCamera Error and Jury InstructionDuring Patrick Sanford - Direct (Part 2)7lines spoken

Summary

The sidebar addressed a camera operator’s apparent mistake and whether it warranted an immediate instruction to the jury.

ProceduralDefense Raises Richardson Issue Over Trooper Downing's Changed Account of Rivera Traffic Stop5lines spoken

Summary

Judge Wheeler found no prejudice from a late-disclosed possible change in Trooper Downing's traffic-stop account and allowed the defense to address it before calling him.

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste1,180lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel challenged Sanford's investigation and Rivera's reliability through recordings, prior statements, and exhibits; Sanford acknowledged an unrecorded Rivera proffer and a mistake about recording policy.

sidebarHearsay Objection to Rivera StatementDuring Patrick Sanford - Cross2lines spoken

Summary

Counsel debated whether a brief statement attributed to Luis Rivera could be introduced for a non-hearsay purpose related to later cross-examination.

sidebarRivera Prior-Statement ImpeachmentDuring Patrick Sanford - Cross5lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether another witness could be used to impeach Rivera concerning prior statements about three trips.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - RedirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

FBI Agent Patrick Sanford offered an alternative explanation for text-message evidence, and the court admitted State's Exhibit 135 without objection.

RecrossPatrick Sanford - RecrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste16lines spoken

Summary

Recross addressed alternative interpretations of the undercover bump and the timing of surveillance and calls afterward.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman7lines spoken

Summary

FBI Agent Patrick Sanford addressed recorded communications, financial evidence, and investigative limits on resumed redirect; the court admitted Defense Exhibit 29 and sustained a hearsay objection.

Day 7

May 26, 2022

ProceduralDefense case opening logistics and ruling on Rodriguez impeachment recording35lines spoken

Summary

The court allowed the defense to use part of Jessica Rodriguez's recorded phone call for impeachment and required advance review of anticipated defense exhibits.

DirectSherry Bennett - DirectSherry BennettChristopher DeCoste64lines spoken

Summary

Officer Bennett described warrant handling and the defense played her recorded interview of Jessica Rodriguez.

CrossSherry Bennett - CrossSherry BennettGeorgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

Bennett confirmed her interview did not directly address whether Katie knew what was going on.

DirectMichael Dillmore - DirectMichael DillmoreChristopher DeCoste50lines spoken

Summary

Michael Dillmore explained the phone-data extractions and could not identify the people behind several phone-number labels.

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Recalled by Defense)Craig IsomChristopher DeCoste98lines spoken

Summary

Defense recall of Craig Isom focused on uninvestigated nightclub income, the unrecorded Rivera interview, and wording in Isom's report about Rivera's account.

RedirectCraig Isom - RedirectCraig IsomChristopher DeCoste6lines spoken

Summary

Isom confirmed report language about Rivera's account and said wendi had not been arrested.

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinChristopher DeCoste166lines spoken

Summary

Defense questioned investigator Jason Newlin about Rivera's discovery, proffers, and the limited recordings of meetings preceding Rivera's statement naming Katie.

DirectJason Newlin - Direct (Continued)Jason NewlinChristopher DeCoste126lines spoken

Summary

Defense questioned investigator Jason Newlin about follow-up on a recovered gun, social-media records, and information concerning Juan Marcos Vega that it argued could bear on Luis Rivera's account.

RedirectJason Newlin - RedirectJason NewlinChristopher DeCoste26lines spoken

Summary

Newlin described the September 2019 jail meeting with Magbanua, said he did not know whether she had a protection agreement, and said nobody laughed during it.

DirectRyan Fitzpatrick - DirectRyan Fitzpatrick60lines spoken

Summary

Defense witness Ryan Fitzpatrick described his former friendship with Charles Adelson, stapled cash payments, and behavior he observed around Katherine's arrest.

ProceduralDefense Withdraws Two Witnesses; Text Message Exhibits Discussed7lines spoken

ProceduralScheduling set for Magbanua testimony; defense text-message exhibits admitted8lines spoken

Summary

The court admitted Defense Exhibits 32 through 39 for a non-hearsay purpose and set the schedule for Magbanua's testimony, jury instructions, closings, and deliberations.

CrossKatherine Magbanua - CrossKatherine MagbanuaSarah Kathryn Dugan3lines spoken

Summary

The State challenged Magbanua's explanations for Adelson payroll payments, cash deposits, contacts, and the Dolce Vita recording; she denied involvement and frequently said she could not recall details.

Day 8

May 27, 2022

ProceduralJury Deliberation and Exhibit Administration3lines spoken

Summary

After jurors left to deliberate, counsel reviewed the exhibits and verdict form; separate Court exhibits were placed in the file and withheld from the jury.

ProceduralJury Question 2 - Exhibit 116 Playback6lines spoken

Summary

The court denied a request to clear the courtroom and played Exhibit 116 for the deliberating jury using headphones.