Prosecution· State Attorney's Office

Georgia Cappleman

Chief Assistant State Attorney Georgia Cappleman, lead prosecutor for the State of Florida in all four Dan Markel murder-for-hire trials.

AppearedGarcia–Magbanua Magbanua Retrial Charlie Adelson Donna Adelson

15,990 lines·418 proceedings·2 mentions·4 trials

About

Her recurring role as a State prosecutor across the Garcia–Magbanua 2019 Joint Trial, magbanua-retrial-2022, charlie-adelson-2023, and donna-adelson-2025 makes her a useful point of continuity in the presentation and testing of the State's evidence and arguments.

Georgia Cappleman served as a State prosecutor in four related trials: the Garcia–Magbanua 2019 Joint Trial, magbanua-retrial-2022, charlie-adelson-2023, and donna-adelson-2025. She regularly presented opening or closing arguments, conducted direct and redirect examinations of investigative, forensic, digital, and other witnesses, and cross-examined defendants or defense witnesses. Her work commonly connected communications, travel, financial, surveillance, recorded, and witness evidence to the State's theory while addressing credibility disputes and reasonable-doubt arguments. In the later trials, she examined the differing defense accounts, including Charlie Adelson's extortion explanation and defense testimony concerning Donna Adelson, and argued the State's alleged conspiracy theory subject to court rulings and cautions on particular questions and arguments.

Attorney insights (18)

Garcia–Magbanua

Focus

Presented the State's opening, previewing the alleged murder-for-hire theory, expected surveillance and phone evidence, Luis Rivera's expected account, alleged payments, and later undercover recordings.

Supporting record (1)

Opening Statement - Georgia CapplemanDay 1

Focus

Conducted direct and redirect examinations, including James Geiger, Joanne Maltese, Anthony Clark, Jeffrey Lacasse, Elizabeth Richey, Oscar Jimenez Jr., and Patrick Sanford; also re-redirected Craig Isom.

Supporting record (9)

Focus

In closing and rebuttal, argued that the custody dispute supplied motive, Magbanua connected the alleged participants, and the jury should consider the financial, communications, travel, surveillance, and undercover evidence together under the court's instructions.

Supporting record (2)

Credibility challenge

On cross-examination of Katherine Magbanua, challenged her accounts of the Dolce Vita meeting, recorded calls with Charlie Adelson, cash deposits, employment arrangement, and phone changes after law enforcement contacted Garcia.

Supporting record (1)

Katherine Magbanua - CrossDay 9

Magbanua Retrial

Focus

Directed and redirected State witnesses on forensic, digital, investigative, and recorded-evidence subjects, including Joanne Maltese, Brock Dietz, Marcia Rodriguez, Wendi Adelson, Jeffrey Lacasse, Luis Rivera, Oscar Jimenez Jr., James Keith McElveen, and Patrick Sanford.

Supporting record (5)

Focus

Corrected the description of the GPS evidence and obtained admission of the separate GPS exhibit after sidebar clarification and no objection.

Supporting record (1)

Craig Isom - DirectDay 1

Focus

In closing and rebuttal, framed the State's evidence around motive, connections, rental-car and financial activity, recorded calls, the charged elements, principal liability, and the reasonable-doubt standard; responded to the defense account and urged jurors not to speculate about excluded material.

Supporting record (2)

Credibility challenge

In cross-examining Sherry Bennett, Cappleman tested whether Jessica Rodriguez had supplied a definite delivery date or said that Katherine Magbanua knew what was in a reported bag.

Supporting record (1)

Sherry Bennett - CrossDay 7

Credibility challenge

In cross-examining Craig Isom, Cappleman addressed Rivera's reported account, including the change from robbery to murder and the discrepancy between Rivera's recollection of a speeding ticket and the documented citation.

Supporting record (1)

Craig Isom - CrossDay 7

Charlie Adelson

Focus

Direct examinations of David Sims, Patrick Sanford, and Wendi Adelson on Day 1; Jeffrey Lacasse, June Umchinda, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and Luis Rivera on Day 2.

Supporting record (7)

Focus

Cross-examination of Charlie Adelson and closing argument framing the State's theory against the extortion explanation.

Supporting record (3)

Credibility challenge

Cross-examined Charlie Adelson on the extortion account, contrasting it with his continuing relationship, payments and gifts to Katherine Magbanua, lack of a police report, and recorded conversations.

Supporting record (1)

Charlie Adelson - CrossDay 7

Credibility challenge

In rebuttal, acknowledged credibility issues involving Katherine Magbanua and argued that jurors should assess her account alongside other evidence.

Supporting record (1)

Rebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanDay 8

Donna Adelson

Focus

Conducted direct examination of Craig Isom, Jason Newlin, and Patrick Sanford, and redirected Sanford and Drina Bernhardt.

Supporting record (5)

Focus

Cross-examined defense witnesses about disputed accounts of the custody conflict, claimed extortion, the relocation litigation, and prior statements.

Supporting record (3)

Focus

Argued that the evidence supported the State's alleged conspiracy theory, including family communications, alleged payments, recorded calls, and direct and circumstantial evidence.

Supporting record (3)

Credibility challenge

Cappleman challenged Cunningham's account by testing its timing, her uncertainty about the sequence of events, and her belief that Charlie Adelson's jury had reached the wrong verdict.

Supporting record (1)

Ann Elizabeth Cunningham - CrossDay 7

Credibility challenge

She tested defense testimony against emails, pleadings, and earlier deposition descriptions, including Bailey's view of the family litigation and Shagran's account of a suggested one-way flight.

Supporting record (2)

Trial Record (418)

GMGarcia–MagbanuaSep 26, 2019 – Oct 11, 2019

Led the State's case through opening, witness examinations, cross-examination of Katherine Magbanua, closing argument, and rebuttal. Framed the prosecution theory around alleged motive, connections among the participants, and the combined force of communications, travel, financial, surveillance, and undercover evidence.

Day 1

Sep 26, 2019

ProceduralTrial Procedures and Sequestration Rulings19lines spoken

Summary

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

OpeningOpening Statement - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman1highlight5lines spoken

Summary

The State previewed its alleged murder-for-hire theory, expected surveillance and phone evidence, Rivera's expected account, and alleged post-killing payments.

Highlights (1)

Quote“But in conclusion, I believe that you will be convinced beyond a reasonable doubt that the State is not pulling a fast one on you but rather that Katherine Magbanua was hired to solicit Garcia, who, in turn, solicited Rivera to come to Tallahassee and to execute Mr. Markel in cold blood.”— Georgia CapplemanThe prosecutor stated the State's ultimate alleged chain of solicitation and requested guilty verdicts.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ProceduralOpening-Statement Evidence Ruling3lines spoken

Summary

The court sustained the State's objection to proposed defense photographs and client statements during opening statements, without deciding their ultimate admissibility.

DirectJames Geiger - DirectJames GeigerGeorgia Cappleman87lines 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 - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectJames Geiger - RedirectJames GeigerGeorgia Cappleman16lines spoken

Summary

The court admitted and played Geiger's 911 call, which captured his immediate observations of the injured neighbor and a departing light-colored vehicle.

Jury QuestionsJames Geiger - Juror QuestionsJames GeigerJames C. Hankinson3lines spoken

Summary

Geiger identified his house and Mr. Markel's house in response to a juror question.

DirectDavid Sims - DirectDavid SimsGeorgia Cappleman56lines spoken

Summary

David Sims described finding Mr. Markel unresponsive in a running vehicle and testified that officers found no signs of forced entry, struggle, or robbery.

CrossDavid Sims - CrossDavid SimsSaam Zangeneh3lines spoken

Summary

Sims said he could not determine Markel's movements or the placement of items in the vehicle before he arrived.

DirectStuart Schlazer - DirectStuart SchlazerGeorgia Cappleman15lines spoken

Summary

Schlazer described hearing a loud sound during a phone call after Markel reported an unfamiliar person in his driveway, then calling 911.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia Cappleman147lines 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 Cappleman21lines spoken

Summary

Forensic examiner Kerri Rosana reported that tested vehicle door-handle and garage-doorknob swabs yielded limited DNA results that could not be compared to known individuals.

DirectWilliam Kornegay - DirectWilliam KornegayGeorgia Cappleman39lines 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 Cappleman25lines 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 - Direct4lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectShelby Blank - DirectShelby BlankGeorgia Cappleman15lines spoken

Summary

Dr. Shelby Blank described Markel's critical condition, hospital treatment, and death roughly 12 to 14 hours after admission.

DirectAnthony Clark - DirectAnthony ClarkGeorgia Cappleman78lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossAnthony Clark - CrossAnthony ClarkMauricio Padilla3lines spoken

Summary

Clark explained his trajectory analysis, described recent discussions with Shawn Yao, and gave the date he finalized the autopsy report.

DirectLen Harvey - DirectLen HarveyGeorgia Cappleman20lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectAndrew Brown - DirectAndrew BrownGeorgia Cappleman18lines spoken

Summary

Brown authenticated video from StarMetro buses 505 and 707; the court admitted State's Exhibit 125 without objection.

DirectBrock Dietz - DirectBrock DietzGeorgia Cappleman36lines spoken

Summary

Brock Dietz described how he prepared annotated Premier Fitness and city-bus surveillance clips without changing their underlying subjects or brightness.

RedirectBrock Dietz - RedirectBrock DietzGeorgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

Dietz said the surveillance-video clarifications were made on a working copy and did not alter the original footage.

sidebarEarly Break for Witness Scheduling3lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed the State's remaining witnesses and whether to begin a lengthy witness later in the day.

sidebarOriginal Bus Footage4lines spoken

Summary

The prosecutor sought to recall Mr. Brown to introduce the original bus footage after concerns were raised about alterations to the admitted disk.

DirectAndrew Brown - Direct (Recall)Andrew BrownGeorgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

Brown authenticated unannotated original bus footage as the State sought to admit Exhibit 173; defense requested voir dire.

Voir DireAndrew Brown - Voir DireAndrew BrownSaam Zangeneh10lines 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 Depositions20lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectRobert Shawn Yao - DirectRobert Shawn YaoGeorgia Cappleman21lines spoken

Summary

Yao gave a conditional expert opinion that the bullet-path evidence was more consistent with a taller shooter; the court overruled a speculation objection.

RedirectRobert Shawn Yao - RedirectRobert Shawn YaoGeorgia Cappleman9lines spoken

Summary

Yao said his conditional taller-shooter opinion allowed straight or slightly bent arms and that an alternative shooting stance would decrease accuracy.

DirectCraig Isom - DirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman350lines 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 IsomChristopher DeCoste16lines 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 Cappleman48lines 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.

Re-DirectCraig Isom - Re-redirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman2lines spoken

Summary

The State asked no further questions, and Craig Isom stepped down subject to the rule.

ProceduralWendi Adelson Immunity and Cross-Examination TimingWendi Adelson8lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman244lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson testified about the divorce and custody dispute with Dan Markel, her family relationships, her movements on the day of the murder, and her claimed lack of knowledge of any plot.

CrossWendi Adelson - CrossWendi AdelsonTara Kawass11lines spoken

Summary

Tara Kawass questioned Wendi Adelson about family ties, recordings, her limited contact with Katherine Magbanua, and events surrounding Dan Markel's murder; the court limited two lines of inquiry.

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman13lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson addressed family contact with the children and the trust fiduciary appointment.

Jury QuestionsWendi Adelson - Juror QuestionsWendi AdelsonJames C. Hankinson10lines spoken

Summary

Juror questions addressed Wendi Adelson's immunity, refreshed memory, relationship timing, and stated reason for limiting the Markel grandparents' contact with the children.

Jury QuestionsWendi Adelson - Juror Question Follow-up by the StateWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman5lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson agreed that Dan's mother proposed temporary help for the children if arrests occurred, but said she viewed it as an effort to take her children.

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

Day 3

Oct 1, 2019

ProceduralRivera-Attorney Privilege and Brannon Sequestration Issues13lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectThomas Balboni - DirectThomas BalboniGeorgia Cappleman33lines spoken

Summary

Fingerprint examiner Thomas Balboni testified that Garcia’s known right thumbprint matched the print on a pawn ticket listed in Garcia’s name.

Jury QuestionsThomas Balboni - Juror QuestionsThomas BalboniJames C. Hankinson5lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectLen Harvey - DirectLen HarveyGeorgia Cappleman16lines spoken

Summary

Harvey authenticated the complete original surveillance footage, and the court admitted State's Exhibit 177 after the defense withdrew its objection.

Jury QuestionsLen Harvey - Juror QuestionsLen HarveyJames C. Hankinson6lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectBill Brannon - DirectBill BrannonGeorgia Cappleman45lines spoken

Summary

Officer Brannon described the crime scene and a Honda Odyssey van that approached the perimeter, turned around, and left.

RedirectBill Brannon - RedirectBill BrannonGeorgia Cappleman7lines spoken

Summary

Brannon clarified the emergency-vehicle locations and said he promptly notified another officer about the vehicle he observed.

Jury QuestionsBill Brannon - Juror Questions (Resumed)Bill BrannonJames C. Hankinson3lines spoken

Summary

Officer Bill Brannon was excused, and the court took a brief recess before the next witness.

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman40lines 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.

RedirectJeffrey Lacasse - RedirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse said he last saw Wendi Adelson on July 14, 2014 and that they never resumed their relationship.

Jury QuestionsJeffrey Lacasse - Juror QuestionsJeffrey LacasseJames C. Hankinson9lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectSteven Lutes - DirectSteven LutesGeorgia Cappleman30lines spoken

Summary

Bank security specialist Steven Lutes authenticated ATM surveillance video and related still images, which the court admitted.

CrossSteven Lutes - CrossSteven LutesSaam Zangeneh7lines 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.

ProceduralRivera Hearsay and Disclosure Motions5lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel raised anticipated hearsay and disclosure issues before Luis Rivera testified; the State reported no new disclosure items.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman571lines spoken

Summary

Rivera testified that Garcia recruited him, shot Dan Markel, and later discussed payment with Katie; the court also reserved a discovery issue over a voice-identification exhibit.

sidebarVoice Identification and Discovery DisputeDuring Luis Rivera - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed the foundation for voice identification and whether a highlighted phone-call summary had been provided in discovery.

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraSaam Zangeneh13lines 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.

sidebarLimits on Latin King QuestioningDuring Luis Rivera - Cross1line spoken

Summary

The sidebar addressed limits on questioning about Rivera's Latin King involvement and alleged connections to other members.

Day 4

Oct 2, 2019

ProceduralVoice-Identification Exhibit Ruling12lines spoken

Summary

The court kept two written voice-identification exhibits from the jury but allowed testimony about which recordings witnesses identified.

ProceduralRivera Cross-Examination Limits and Recollection Procedure8lines spoken

Summary

The court set limits for cross-examining Luis Rivera, allowed focused mental-health questioning, and established an outside-the-jury procedure for refreshing his recollection.

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraSaam Zangeneh10lines spoken

Summary

Garcia's counsel challenged Rivera's memory, literacy, prior accounts, and cooperation incentives; the court admitted two defense letters and limited several questions.

sidebarRivera Statement AdmissionDuring Luis Rivera - Cross1line spoken

Summary

Counsel sought to admit Mr. Rivera's October 4, 2016 statement to law enforcement without publishing it to the jury at that time.

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraTara Kawass9lines spoken

Summary

Kawass tested Rivera's cooperation incentives, memory, and prior accounts of the alleged planning, shooting, and payment; the court denied a mistrial motion during a sidebar.

ProceduralRivera Impeachment, Cocaine Evidence, and Severance Rulings5lines spoken

Summary

The court excluded proposed Rivera impeachment and cocaine-sale testimony, denied severance and mistrial, and clarified presentation of phone-call identifications.

CrossLuis Rivera - Cross (Part 2)Luis RiveraTara Kawass7lines spoken

Summary

Kawass challenged Rivera's memory, prior accounts, convictions, and plea benefits; after a jury break, he confirmed several prior statements that differed from or omitted parts of his testimony.

RedirectLuis Rivera - RedirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman150lines spoken

Summary

Rivera's redirect reinforced his account of the alleged murder plan, Magbanua's claimed intermediary role, and an alleged payment, while the court limited proposed gang-related prior-crimes evidence.

Jury QuestionsLuis Rivera - Juror QuestionsLuis RiveraJames C. Hankinson3lines spoken

Summary

Rivera answered a jury question that he had not previously seen a photograph of wendi Adelson.

DirectJonathan Grossman - DirectJonathan GrossmanGeorgia Cappleman34lines spoken

Summary

Jonathan Grossman described inspections of a Toyota Prius and the court admitted photographs documenting the vehicle's floorboard and fuel-line area.

Jury QuestionsJonathan Grossman - Juror QuestionsJonathan GrossmanJames C. Hankinson7lines spoken

Summary

Grossman answered juror questions about the Prius's VIN match and prior paint color.

DirectKeith Leland - DirectKeith LelandGeorgia Cappleman40lines spoken

Summary

Keith Leland described Markel's preschool visit on the day of the homicide and his observation of a Prius outside the building.

Jury QuestionsKeith Leland - Juror QuestionsKeith LelandJames C. Hankinson5lines 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 Question Follow-up by the StateKeith LelandGeorgia Cappleman10lines spoken

Summary

Leland said his report of seeing a green Prius came years after law enforcement's initial child-safety inquiry.

DirectShoddrick Nobles - DirectShoddrick NoblesGeorgia Cappleman142lines spoken

Summary

Nobles identified Garcia and described helping two men with a vehicle and a Rodeway Inn room; the motel record was admitted.

CrossShoddrick Nobles - CrossShoddrick NoblesSaam Zangeneh5lines spoken

Summary

Garcia's counsel challenged Nobles's account of the motel encounter, cocaine acquisition, police contact, and probation history; Nobles said he did not see Garcia with a gun.

RedirectShoddrick Nobles - RedirectShoddrick NoblesGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

Nobles confirmed the delay before law-enforcement contact; the court clarified that his probation history included no adjudication of guilt.

DirectJustin Noble Willits - DirectJustin Noble WillitsGeorgia Cappleman50lines spoken

Summary

FDOT records identified one Prius-listed SunPass account in the requested travel windows, while the witness clarified that the transponder could not be tied to a particular vehicle.

DirectElizabeth Richey - DirectElizabeth RicheyGeorgia Cappleman31lines spoken

Summary

Firearms analyst Elizabeth Richey testified that two recovered bullets were fired from the same firearm.

RedirectElizabeth Richey - RedirectElizabeth RicheyGeorgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

Richey confirmed that the submitted firearm did not fire the two projectiles.

ProceduralTrial Scheduling and Lesser-Included-Offense Issue8lines 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 Cappleman85lines 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 UmchindaSaam Zangeneh4lines spoken

Summary

Garcia's counsel tested the limits of Umchinda's recorded interview and her firsthand knowledge of Charlie Adelson before 2015.

RedirectJune Umchinda - RedirectJune UmchindaGeorgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

June Umchinda clarified that she did not believe prosecutors personally came to her door and addressed her understanding of the recorded interview.

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.

ProceduralTraffic Citation and Cell-Site Demonstrative Rulings19lines spoken

Summary

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

Day 6

Oct 4, 2019

ProceduralGarcia Traffic Citation Richardson Ruling9lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralFHP Protocol Discovery Dispute and Scheduling3lines spoken

Summary

The defense moved to exclude newly disclosed FHP protocol documents; the court deferred the matter for a Richardson hearing and set a tentative Monday appearance time for Trooper Downing.

DirectOscar Jimenez Jr. - DirectOscar Jimenez Jr.Georgia Cappleman71lines 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.

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 Rulings8lines 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 Rulings42lines 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.

DirectSherry Bennett - DirectSherry BennettGeorgia Cappleman17lines spoken

Summary

Investigator Sherry Bennett authenticated the custody and storage of wiretap-recording disks, including State's Exhibit 138.

DirectPatrick Sanford - DirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman346lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarReconsideration of Name-Identification QuestionDuring Patrick Sanford - Direct7lines spoken

Summary

The prosecutor sought reconsideration of a ruling limiting questions about whether Charlie identified Katherine Magbanua without Donna stating her name.

sidebarObjection to Unredacted LanguageDuring Patrick Sanford - Direct1line spoken

Summary

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

Voir DirePatrick Sanford - Voir Dire (Georgia Cappleman)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman27lines spoken

Summary

Sanford described how he prepared a Dolce Vita recording transcript and said he did not know how all jurors could simultaneously use his listening setup.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 3)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman20lines spoken

Summary

Sanford identified and played recorded calls involving Magbanua and Adelson, including discussions of alleged threats and vehicle-repair expenses.

sidebarInterview Testimony and Redaction Concern1line spoken

Summary

Defense counsel raised concern that testimony about an initial interview could mislead or confuse the jury despite a redaction of the invocation.

ProceduralGarcia FBI Interview ProfferPatrick Sanford18lines 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 Cappleman24lines 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 Zangeneh28lines 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 Logistics19lines 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 DeCoste49lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarFacebook Photo Impeachment DisputeDuring Patrick Sanford - Cross3lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarPossible Undisclosed Agent MeetingDuring Patrick Sanford - Cross1line spoken

Summary

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

RedirectPatrick Sanford - RedirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman39lines 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)1line 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.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman40lines 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)

Summary

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

sidebarJuror Questions on Financial Records15lines 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 the StatePatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

Sanford clarified the dates and approximate times of calls to the undercover agent.

Jury QuestionsPatrick Sanford - Further Juror Question Follow-up by the StatePatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman10lines spoken

Summary

Sanford identified Mr. Garcia in admitted call LL and placed it about nine minutes after an unverified hang-up call to the undercover.

DirectLouis Bronstein - DirectLouis BronsteinGeorgia Cappleman28lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Louis Bronstein authenticated and identified the participants in a poorly audible surveillance recording of Charlie Adelson and Katie Magbanua's restaurant meeting; the court admitted State's Exhibit 154.

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Recall)Craig IsomGeorgia Cappleman16lines spoken

Summary

Craig Isom testified that crime-scene tape was not visible from Centerville Road and described an arrest-related call from Charlie Adelson's attorney before a hearsay objection.

sidebarAttorney Call After Arrest10lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether testimony about an attorney's call after Magbanua's arrest was admissible to show how arrest information was conveyed.

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomChristopher DeCoste4lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarJuror Question and Mistrial Motion4lines 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.

CrossStephen Downing - CrossStephen DowningGeorgia Cappleman21lines spoken

Summary

The State highlighted the limited retention of traffic-stop video, Downing's lack of independent memory, and an automatic default in the citation's passenger field.

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinChristopher DeCoste10lines 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 - Direct1line 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 - Direct1line spoken

Summary

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

CrossJason Newlin - CrossJason NewlinGeorgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

Newlin said the first meeting about Rivera's cooperation led to a gun search, was not memorialized in notes, and involved no observed coaching about a deal.

ProceduralRivera Apple Subscriber Record Ruling4lines 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 Testimony7lines 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.

DirectKatherine Magbanua - DirectKatherine MagbanuaTara Kawass20lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua denied involvement in the murder, explained her relationships and recorded calls, and said she had no personal information tying Charlie Adelson to the crime.

sidebarQuestion About Cooperation MotiveDuring Katherine Magbanua - Direct4lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether a question about a news article and the witness's awareness of the State's desire for cooperation would improperly enter excluded plea-related topics.

CrossKatherine Magbanua - CrossKatherine Magbanua377lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua denied involvement in the murder while the State challenged her account of recorded calls, finances, job arrangement, and phone use.

RedirectKatherine Magbanua - RedirectKatherine MagbanuaTara Kawass5lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua addressed discovery access and recordings on redirect before a dispute over Defense Exhibit 26 sent the jury out.

ProceduralMagbanua Employment-Statement Ruling4lines 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.

RedirectKatherine Magbanua - Redirect (Part 2)Katherine MagbanuaTara Kawass11lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua disputed the State's phone-use and jail-inmate allegations; the judge limited portions of the redirect and instructed jurors on unadmitted calls.

sidebarJury Questions and Defense Exhibits12lines spoken

Summary

The court reviewed jury questions about promotions, employment, tips, tax forms, and food stamps, then addressed a defense photograph and cash-related demonstrative.

ProceduralMagbanua Defense Rests4lines spoken

sidebarNext-Day Closing Schedule4lines spoken

Summary

The court and counsel discussed ending for the day and completing motions and the charge conference before beginning instructions and closing arguments the next morning.

ProceduralFinal Jury-Instruction Conference4lines spoken

Summary

The court finalized jury instructions, denied Magbanua's circumstantial-evidence request, and approved a revised wire-call disk for the jury.

Day 10

Oct 10, 2019

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman5highlights27lines spoken

Summary

The State argued that corroborating records and testimony tied both defendants to an alleged murder-for-hire conspiracy and requested guilty verdicts.

Highlights (5)

otherCappleman argued that the contested divorce, failed relocation effort, and Adelson-family emails supplied a motive for the alleged murder-for-hire plot.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“The whole case doesn't hinge on him, because he's telling you what you already know from the evidence, all the circumstantial evidence in the case.”— Georgia CapplemanCappleman framed Rivera's testimony as corroborated rather than the sole basis for the State's case.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

evidence eventCappleman synthesized the phone, GPS, rental, and toll evidence to argue that it corroborated the June and July Tallahassee trips, the homicide-day timeline, and the alleged payment meeting.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

otherCappleman argued that the principal instruction supported liability for both defendants and asked the jury to return guilty verdicts on all charges.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Show all 5 highlights

Quote“The Prius led to Rivera, Rivera led to Garcia, and the bad blood led to the Adelsons, and both trails end at Katherine Magbanua.”— Georgia CapplemanCappleman condensed the State's alleged link between its physical-evidence and motive narratives.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman5highlights6lines spoken

Summary

Cappleman rebutted defense arguments, emphasized the State's claimed corroborating evidence, and asked jurors to convict both defendants.

Highlights (5)

procedural actionCappleman rebutted the defense characterization of the investigation, describing extensive surveillance, records analysis, searches, and surveillance authorization.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“And there is only one verdict that speaks the truth in this case and that does justice in this case, and that is a verdict of guilty as charged for both defendants.”— Georgia CapplemanCappleman concluded by requesting guilty-as-charged verdicts for both defendants.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

testimony highlightCappleman challenged the defense attack on Rivera, arguing that his inconsistencies were natural and that his account matched other evidence; she acknowledged jurors must decide credibility.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“You believe him because he's telling you what you already know. He's telling you what the rest of the evidence in the case supports and tells you.”— Georgia CapplemanCappleman framed Rivera's credibility as dependent on corroboration rather than character.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Show all 5 highlights

otherCappleman synthesized the State's theory of Magbanua as the alleged intermediary and asked for guilty-as-charged verdicts against both defendants.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Jury InstructionDeliberation Instructions and Alternate Juror3lines spoken

Summary

The jury received final deliberation directions and began deliberating; the court retained the remaining alternate for a possible penalty phase.

ProceduralDeliberation Evidence and Penalty-Phase Logistics9lines spoken

Day 11

Oct 11, 2019

ProceduralMagbanua Mistrial Scheduling and Representation4lines 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.

KMMagbanua RetrialMay 18, 2022 – May 27, 2022

Led the State's examinations, evidentiary presentation, closing argument, and rebuttal. Her trial work focused on connecting the State's witness and documentary evidence to the charged elements while responding to defense challenges and arguments.

Day 1

May 18, 2022

ProceduralDay 1 pre-jury housekeeping — appearances, sequestration, and exhibit logistics11lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectJames Geiger - DirectJames GeigerGeorgia Cappleman93lines 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.

DirectDavid Sims - DirectDavid SimsGeorgia Cappleman25lines spoken

Summary

David Sims described finding a wounded victim in a running garage vehicle, assisting EMS, and seeing no apparent forced entry or disturbance inside the house.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia Cappleman90lines 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.

ProceduralTransition — Judge confers on timing before next witness3lines spoken

DirectAnthony Clark - DirectAnthony ClarkGeorgia Cappleman66lines 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 - Direct

Summary

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

DirectBrock Dietz - DirectBrock DietzGeorgia Cappleman33lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectCraig Isom - DirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman304lines 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 - Direct4lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarWitness Materials and RecollectionDuring Craig Isom - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarPhone-Call Sequence AdmissibilityDuring Craig Isom - Direct4lines 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 DeCoste17lines 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.

sidebarImmunity Offer QuestioningDuring Craig Isom - Cross1line 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 Cappleman92lines 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 - Redirect9lines 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 - Redirect2lines 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 Scheduling3lines 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

DirectMarcia Rodriguez - DirectMarcia RodriguezGeorgia Cappleman20lines spoken

Summary

Rodriguez authenticated Cellebrite report excerpts from a phone purportedly owned by Wendi Adelson, and the court admitted State's Exhibits 55 through 58.

CrossMarcia Rodriguez - CrossMarcia RodriguezChristopher DeCoste6lines 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 - Cross6lines 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 Cappleman505lines 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 - Direct4lines 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 DeCoste3lines 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.

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman30lines spoken

Summary

Adelson addressed an email about her children's care and said she had not discussed the murder with her parents or received any admission or denial from Charlie or her parents.

DirectBill Brannon - DirectBill BrannonGeorgia Cappleman44lines spoken

Summary

Officer Brannon described securing the Trescott Drive perimeter and seeing a Honda Odyssey turn around and leave; he could not conclusively identify its driver.

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman116lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse recounted his relationship with wendi Adelson, alleged statements involving Charlie Adelson and Dan Markel, and the travel alibi he said eliminated him as a suspect.

RedirectJeffrey Lacasse - RedirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman34lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse denied any connection to the killers and addressed the dinner timeline, Charlie Adelson's demeanor, and the timing of Dan Markel's murder.

ProceduralPre-Rivera OJP — exhibit disclosure dispute and co-conspirator hearsay motion8lines 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 Cappleman569lines 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 DeCoste19lines 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

ProceduralUntimely Jail Call Discovery — Richardson Hearing Ordered for Monday5lines spoken

Summary

Defense objected to late-disclosed jail calls; the court ordered weekend review and a Monday Richardson hearing if the State sought to use them.

ProceduralAdmissibility ruling — co-conspirator statements and murder-for-hire conspiracy timeline5lines spoken

Summary

Judge Wheeler held that the alleged murder-for-hire conspiracy could continue until payment, allowing the challenged co-conspirator statements; a separate Crawford argument was deferred.

CrossLuis Rivera - Cross (Part 2)Luis RiveraChristopher DeCoste5lines 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)3lines 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 Cappleman118lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralOJP — Proffer on 'Tato' iCloud Contact / Richardson Hearing ArgumentChristopher Corbitt5lines 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.

ProceduralJury dismissed for weekend; exhibit list reconciled and Monday witnesses previewed13lines spoken

Day 4

May 23, 2022

ProceduralWork Product Dispute Over Defense Attorney's Recorded Calls with Garcia21lines spoken

Summary

The court reserved ruling on recorded calls involving defense counsel and Garcia, ordered translations of Spanish calls, and planned a Richardson hearing.

ProceduralApple Records Discovery Dispute — Phone Number Attribution Ruling5lines 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.

ProceduralState's Exhibit 133 Played — Recorded Statements on Garcia-Adelson Contact; Lunch Recess12lines spoken

ProceduralPre-Lunch Housekeeping — Defense Rule of Completeness Argument Denied3lines spoken

DirectJune Umchinda - DirectJune UmchindaGeorgia Cappleman86lines spoken

Summary

June Umchinda described her relationship with Charlie Adelson, limited observations of cash at his home, and what he told her about an older Lexus provided to Katherine Magbanua.

Day 5

May 24, 2022

DirectElizabeth Richey - DirectElizabeth RicheyGeorgia Cappleman25lines spoken

Summary

Firearms analyst Elizabeth Richey testified that two recovered projectiles were fired from the same firearm and were consistent with a revolver using .38 Special or .357 Magnum cartridges.

DirectJessica Rodriguez - DirectJessica RodriguezGeorgia Cappleman146lines spoken

Summary

Jessica Rodriguez described Rivera and Garcia leaving town, a later package delivery involving Garcia and Magbanua, and a prior deposition statement about Magbanua's knowledge of Garcia's conduct.

CrossJessica Rodriguez - CrossJessica RodriguezTara Kawass9lines spoken

Summary

Defense questioned Jessica Rodriguez about her delayed package-delivery account, prior statements, and relationship with Luis Rivera.

RedirectJessica Rodriguez - RedirectJessica RodriguezGeorgia Cappleman37lines spoken

Summary

Rodriguez denied lying for Rivera or knowing the package delivery's significance before police contacted her, then clarified the delivery's location and her exchange with Magbanua about the bag.

ProceduralLunch Recess and Exhibit Preview — FBI Undercover Bump Calls13lines 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.

DirectOscar Jimenez Jr. - DirectOscar Jimenez Jr.Georgia Cappleman60lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Oscar Jimenez Jr. described an undercover encounter with Donna Adelson; the court admitted the flyer and recordings of that encounter.

RedirectOscar Jimenez Jr. - RedirectOscar Jimenez Jr.Georgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

Jimenez confirmed his FBI report recorded the undercover phone number and, he believed, the $5,000 amount on the paper.

DirectLouis Bronstein - DirectLouis BronsteinGeorgia Cappleman47lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Louis Bronstein authenticated recordings of a Dolce Vita surveillance meeting between Charlie Adelson and Katherine Magbanua; State's Exhibit 114 was admitted.

CrossLouis Bronstein - CrossLouis BronsteinChristopher DeCoste3lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectJames Keith McElveen - DirectJames Keith McElveenGeorgia Cappleman35lines spoken

Summary

Forensic engineer James Keith McElveen described enhancing a noisy restaurant recording and testified that the process could not alter its content; the court admitted State's Exhibit 115.

RedirectJames Keith McElveen - RedirectJames Keith McElveenGeorgia Cappleman10lines spoken

Summary

McElveen verified that the combined restaurant-video exhibit used his final enhanced audio and was synchronized with the video.

ProceduralExhibit Mix-Up Corrected: Dolce Vita Recordings 114 and 116 Clarified Out of Jury25lines 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.

RedirectJames Keith McElveen - Redirect (Continued)James Keith McElveenGeorgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

McElveen authenticated the combined audio-video Exhibit 116, which the court admitted; he distinguished it from the audio-only Exhibit 115.

DirectLouis Bronstein - Direct (Recall)Louis BronsteinGeorgia Cappleman1line spoken

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 1)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman233lines 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 Housekeeping11lines 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 objection6lines 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 Cappleman251lines 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.

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste50lines 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 - Cross2lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectPatrick Sanford - RedirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman21lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman66lines 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 recording4lines 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.

CrossSherry Bennett - CrossSherry BennettGeorgia Cappleman11lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman29lines spoken

Summary

Isom read report language about Rivera's account and acknowledged that Rivera's memory of a speeding ticket differed from the documented citation.

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinChristopher DeCoste4lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossJason Newlin - CrossJason NewlinGeorgia Cappleman13lines spoken

Summary

Newlin said the defense gun photographs were unrelated to the murder and denied that investigators coached Rivera or directed his cooperation.

RedirectJason Newlin - RedirectJason NewlinChristopher DeCosteMentioned1line 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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralScheduling set for Magbanua testimony; defense text-message exhibits admitted4lines 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.

Day 8

May 27, 2022

ProceduralVerdict Form Correction and Jury Instruction Copy Distribution3lines spoken

Summary

Judge Wheeler corrected Count 3's verdict-form lettering and confirmed instruction copies were ready before bringing in the jury.

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman5highlights18lines spoken

Summary

The State argued that phone, financial, rental-car, witness, and recorded-call evidence showed Magbanua acted as an intermediary in the alleged murder-for-hire conspiracy and asked for guilty verdicts on all charges.

Highlights (5)

otherCappleman argued that two paths, the Prius investigation and the Adelson family's motive, implicated Magbanua as an intermediary.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

procedural actionCappleman connected the State's theory to the principal-liability and reasonable-doubt instructions, arguing that the jury should reject speculation not supported by evidence.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“The Prius led to Garcia and Rivera; the bad blood led to the Adelsons; and both trails lead to this Defendant.”— Georgia CapplemanConcise statement of the prosecution's circumstantial case theory.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“If you find yourself speculating, then it's not a reasonable doubt.”— Georgia CapplemanThe prosecutor's framing of the reasonable-doubt standard.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Show all 5 highlights

procedural actionCappleman concluded by asking the jury to return guilty verdicts on all charged offenses; the court then recessed before the defense closing argument.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman3highlights3lines spoken

Summary

Cappleman urged jurors to rely on admitted evidence, reject the defense's coincidence theory, and find Katherine Magbanua guilty.

Highlights (3)

procedural actionIn rebuttal, Cappleman argued that jurors should decide the case from admitted evidence and the elements of the offenses, rather than speculate about material excluded from evidence.Open in transcript →

otherCappleman argued that the defense account required multiple coincidences, pointing to rental-car activity, a cash increase, employment after the killing, Rivera's testimony, and the relationships among Magbanua, Garcia, and Charlie Adelson.Open in transcript →

Quote“How many coincidences does it take for it to no longer be a coincidence?”— Georgia CapplemanCappleman condensed the State's rebuttal theory that the defense explanation depended on too many unrelated events aligning by chance.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ProceduralJury Deliberation and Exhibit Administration5lines 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.

CACharlie AdelsonOct 26, 2023 – Nov 6, 2023

Led the prosecution's witness examinations, cross-examined Charlie Adelson about his extortion account, and delivered the State's closing and rebuttal arguments.

Day 1

Oct 26, 2023

sidebarMedia Privacy and Juror Contact4lines spoken

Summary

Counsel raised concerns that media and bloggers could capture private notes and conversations and might discuss the case near jurors.

ProceduralPre-Session Housekeeping: Media Rules, Jury Instructions, and Stipulations5lines spoken

Summary

The court set media and juror-privacy rules, approved an optional right-to-remain-silent instruction, and addressed several stipulations.

DirectJames Geiger - DirectJames GeigerGeorgia Cappleman73lines spoken

Summary

James Geiger described hearing a loud bang, seeing a vehicle leave Dan Markel's driveway, finding Markel injured in the garage, and calling 911.

DirectDavid Sims - DirectDavid SimsGeorgia Cappleman40lines spoken

Summary

David Sims described his initial response to the shots-fired call, the vehicle and person he found, and steps taken to preserve the scene.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia Cappleman88lines spoken

Summary

Forensic specialist Joanne Maltese authenticated crime-scene, hospital, and vehicle photographs and physical evidence, including eyeglass pieces, glass, a wallet, and a receipt.

ProceduralLunch Recess — Defense Objection to Medical Examiner Photos Overruled3lines spoken

Summary

The court overruled a defense objection to proposed medical-examiner photographs, permitting the State to seek their admission with proper foundation.

DirectAnthony Clark - DirectAnthony ClarkGeorgia Cappleman72lines spoken

Summary

Dr. Anthony Clark gave autopsy testimony on the two gunshot wounds, their likely sequence and range, and the cause and manner of Dan Markel's death.

DirectPatrick Sanford - DirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman222lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Patrick Sanford described divorce, surveillance, toll, rental, and employment records used in the investigation, including a rental contract identifying Luis Rivera and checks issued to Katherine Magbanua.

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordDan Rashbaum3lines spoken

Summary

Rashbaum tested Sanford's personal knowledge of emails and financial records while comparing recurring payments with payment practices in extortion and murder-for-hire cases.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - RedirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman16lines spoken

Summary

Sanford testified that the relocation objective was South Florida and that Tallahassee plans and an unresolved motion did not proceed after Dan Markel's murder.

ProceduralWendi Adelson Immunity Statement and Rule of Sequestration Invoked4lines spoken

Summary

The court permitted an immunity statement for Ms. Adelson and invoked sequestration for prospective witnesses before testimony resumed.

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman544lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson testified about the divorce, family emails, Charlie Adelson's hitman joke, and her actions on the day Dan Markel was killed, while denying any role or advance knowledge.

sidebarImproper Comment ObjectionDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct1line spoken

Summary

The defense raised an improper-comment objection, and the State agreed to strike the comment.

sidebarRequest for Email Exhibit CopyDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

Defense requested a copy of the email exhibit pages being used during the witness examination.

CrossWendi Adelson - Cross (Part 1)Wendi AdelsonDan Rashbaum11lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson denied involvement in the murder as the defense addressed relocation, family communications, Charlie's hitman joke, and Dan Markel's public travel posts; Defense Exhibit 1 was admitted.

sidebarDocument Admission and State of MindDuring Wendi Adelson - Cross (Part 1)4lines spoken

Summary

The parties debated whether a document concerning legal options for moving children and furniture was relevant and admissible to show Wendi's state of mind.

Day 2

Oct 27, 2023

CrossWendi Adelson - Cross (Part 2)Wendi AdelsonDan Rashbaum18lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson testified about her Tallahassee plans, July 2014 activities, police cooperation, and relationship with Jeffrey Lacasse as the defense challenged a relocation-based motive.

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman108lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson explained her move from Tallahassee, addressed the indictment and recorded calls, and responded to questions about family access and the defense theory; the court gave two limiting instructions.

ProceduralRecess and Sidebar Preview — Next Two Witnesses5lines spoken

Summary

The court set proffer and scope limits for anticipated Rivera testimony, confirmed a hearsay limitation for Mr. Lacasse, and clarified a prior witness could not opine on constitutional law.

DirectBill Brannon - DirectBill BrannonGeorgia Cappleman49lines spoken

Summary

Officer Bill Brannon described securing the Trescott Drive scene and observing a Honda Odyssey-type vehicle approach the roadblock, turn around, and leave.

RedirectBill Brannon - RedirectBill BrannonGeorgia Cappleman9lines spoken

Summary

Brannon confirmed the roadblock markings and said he could see the law-enforcement activity from his perspective.

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman100lines spoken

Summary

Jeffrey Lacasse described Wendi Adelson's relocation-related distress, a purported statement by Charles Adelson about criminal connections, and June–July 2014 events before the jury was excused over a disputed line of testimony.

ProceduralMotion in Limine: Exclusion of Lacasse Proffer on Wendi Adelson's Alleged Hitman Statement — Ruled Out on Fairness GroundsJeffrey Lacasse25lines spoken

Summary

The court barred proposed impeachment of Wendi Adelson through Jeffrey Lacasse on fairness grounds, heard a proffer outside the jury's presence, and temporarily applied the same ruling to the celebration-dinner issue.

RedirectJeffrey Lacasse - RedirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman5lines spoken

Summary

Jeffrey Lacasse said he did not know of the alleged conspiracy during his earlier interactions with the defendant and Katherine Magbanua.

ProceduralLunch Recess3lines spoken

Summary

The court recessed for lunch, reminded defense counsel to keep future proffers from being overheard, and then resumed the State's case.

DirectStephen Webster - DirectStephen WebsterGeorgia Cappleman35lines spoken

Summary

Dan Markel's attorney described ongoing family-court conflict, rejected a relocation-payoff scenario, and said Markel was not planning to relocate.

ProceduralAfternoon Transition — Witness Located, Jury Projector Glare Note7lines spoken

DirectJune Umchinda - DirectJune UmchindaGeorgia Cappleman187lines spoken

Summary

June Umchinda described her relationship with Charlie Adelson, her observations after the investigation became known to her, and prior statements the prosecutor used to question her current account.

CrossJune Umchinda - CrossJune UmchindaDan Rashbaum6lines spoken

Summary

Defense challenged the timing and scope of June Umchinda's observations, while the court excluded a proposed account of Charlie Adelson's response as self-serving hearsay.

RedirectJune Umchinda - RedirectJune UmchindaGeorgia Cappleman16lines spoken

Summary

June Umchinda addressed earlier statements about Charlie's behavior and his claimed assistance to Katherine Magbanua.

DirectRyan Fitzpatrick - DirectRyan FitzpatrickGeorgia Cappleman73lines spoken

Summary

Former friend Ryan Fitzpatrick testified about Charlie Adelson's family relationships, cash handling, post-2016-arrest demeanor, and alleged disclosures, while acknowledging a later personal falling out and limits on his memory.

ProceduralSidebar Transition — Witness Logistics and Cross-Examination Scheduling6lines spoken

Summary

The court arranged a defense proffer and discussed timing for Rivera's testimony and possible cross-examination.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman350lines spoken

Summary

Luis Rivera described his cooperation agreement and gave a first-hand account of the alleged planning, shooting, payment, and aftermath of Dan Markel's murder.

DirectWendi Adelson - Direct (Recall)Wendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman8lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson denied alleged statements to Jeffrey Lacasse about a hitman and a celebration dinner.

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman6lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson said Jane McPherson first raised Jeffrey Lacasse's name during her police interview.

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - Direct (Recall)Jeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman37lines spoken

Summary

Jeffrey Lacasse recounted a reported hitman statement, questions about his planned trip, and evidence he said placed him in Tennessee at the time of the homicide.

RedirectJeffrey Lacasse - RedirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman16lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse clarified his recollection and recordkeeping, then explained why he did not report an alleged hitman-related statement before the murder.

ProceduralPost-Lacasse Sidebar — Notes Inquiry and Break8lines spoken

RedirectJeffrey Lacasse - Redirect (2nd)Jeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse said his personal notes were voluntary organizational aids and that their contents were included in the provided interviews.

Day 3

Oct 30, 2023

RedirectLuis Rivera - RedirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman30lines spoken

Summary

Rivera denied a Latin Kings connection to the murder and said Garcia did not discuss the dentist during the Tallahassee trips.

sidebarVoice Identification Stipulation8lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed stipulating to identification of voices on calls and proceeding with the witness.

DirectKatherine Magbanua - DirectKatherine MagbanuaGeorgia Cappleman299lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua admitted prior false testimony and gave an account of alleged recruitment, delivery of target information and money, post-homicide payment, and later coded communications.

sidebarWitness Interview DisclosureDuring Katherine Magbanua - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

Defense raised concerns about undisclosed witness-interview material before questioning proceeded.

CrossKatherine Magbanua - CrossKatherine MagbanuaDan Rashbaum10lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua acknowledged prior lies, described difficulty admitting her role during proffers, and said she hoped to see her children again despite no promise from the State.

sidebarImpeachment Foundation ObjectionDuring Katherine Magbanua - Cross1line spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether an officer's words could be used for impeachment without first following the proper procedure.

RedirectKatherine Magbanua - RedirectKatherine MagbanuaGeorgia Cappleman11lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua reaffirmed that she understood the job was to result in a killing before the murder.

sidebarDolce Vita Transcript Admission3lines spoken

Summary

The court raised whether a transcript authenticated as the Dolce Vita recording would be offered into evidence, noting it had previously been disputed.

RedirectMary Hull - RedirectMary HullGeorgia Cappleman18lines spoken

Summary

Hull clarified the differing cash-deposit patterns and described messages between Magbanua and Charlie Adelson.

DirectCorey Hale - DirectCorey HaleGeorgia Cappleman35lines spoken

Summary

Corey Hale described the timing of Jeffrey Lacasse's police interview and the admission of July 31 text messages identified as relating to a dinner involving wendy and Charlie Adelson.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittSarah Kathryn Dugan59lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt presented the State's phone, location, rental, and extracted-device records, while explaining the limits of historical cell-site analysis.

sidebarDolce Transcript Issue ScheduledDuring Christopher Corbitt - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed ending for the evening and postponing the Dolce transcript issue until the next morning.

Day 4

Oct 31, 2023

ProceduralDolce Vita Transcript Demonstrative — Defense Objection and Ruling on Inaudible Markers7lines spoken

Summary

The court required the Dolce Vita transcript demonstrative to preserve “inaudible” markers and allowed further foundation questioning before jury display.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittSarah Kathryn Dugan5lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt clarified duplicate-call methodology, a corrected message attribution, and the limits of cell-site evidence; the court sustained a speculation objection during redirect.

sidebarText Message Context DisputeDuring Christopher Corbitt - Redirect1line spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether a proposed text message could be considered without earlier messages that allegedly supplied its context.

DirectOscar Jimenez Jr. - DirectOscar Jimenez Jr.Georgia Cappleman46lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Oscar Jimenez Jr. authenticated the undercover contact, recordings, and call materials involving Donna Adelson; the court admitted the related State exhibits.

CrossOscar Jimenez Jr. - CrossOscar Jimenez Jr.Dan Rashbaum3lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel questioned FBI agent Oscar Jimenez Jr. about the undercover operation, an unretained flyer, and his limited recollection of later calls and messages.

DirectLouis Bronstein - DirectLouis BronsteinGeorgia Cappleman43lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Louis Bronstein described recording Charlie Adelson and Katherine Magbanua at Dolce Vita; State's Exhibit 109 was admitted over objection.

CrossLouis Bronstein - CrossLouis BronsteinDan Rashbaum5lines spoken

Summary

Bronstein acknowledged he did not know what was discussed before the restaurant recording and could not hear much of the conversation directly.

ProceduralDefense Flags Unreviewed Dolce Vita Transcript; Court Grants Review Time6lines spoken

DirectJames Keith McElveen - DirectJames Keith McElveenGeorgia Cappleman33lines spoken

Summary

Forensic engineer James Keith McElveen explained audio processing of two restaurant recordings; the court admitted State's Exhibits 110 and 113.

ProceduralDolce Vita Recording Review Confirmed; Cautionary Instruction Finalized4lines spoken

Summary

Defense renewed its objection after reviewing the modified recording, and the court set the cautionary instruction to accompany its presentation.

sidebarLengthy Witness Schedule4lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed ending early during a lengthy recordings witness and allowing the defense time afterward to consult with its client about whether he would testify.

DirectBrian Kendall - DirectBrian KendallGeorgia Cappleman22lines spoken

Summary

Brian Kendall described and authenticated an undercover Matsuri restaurant recording of Charles and Harvey Adelson; the court admitted State's Exhibit 112 without objection.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Recall)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman196lines spoken

Summary

Sanford authenticated wiretap and undercover recordings, described the 2016 bump and ensuing calls, and helped introduce related exhibits.

Day 5

Nov 1, 2023

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Recall, Continued)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman231lines spoken

Summary

Sanford continued explaining undercover recordings and call sequences; the court admitted key exhibits, addressed a foundation objection, and replayed audio to clarify a disputed reference.

CrossPatrick Sanford - Cross (Recall)Patrick SanfordDan Rashbaum4lines spoken

Summary

Sanford acknowledged no established burner-phone evidence for Charlie Adelson, Magbanua's false statements about the undercover, and gaps in a key recording as the defense challenged the investigation's inferences.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Recall)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman14lines spoken

Summary

Sanford clarified the breakup timeline, continued contact, and surveillance of Katherine Magbanua and Sigfredo Garcia.

DirectKristin Adamson - DirectKristin AdamsonKathryn Meyers7lines spoken

Summary

Adamson gave family-law context for the relocation dispute and later divorce motions, described her advice to Wendi Adelson, and identified May 2 filings as afternoon documents.

CrossKristin Adamson - CrossKristin AdamsonGeorgia Cappleman21lines spoken

Summary

Adamson agreed the cited calls followed the May 2 filings, called the broader divorce case odd, and described minimal contact with Donna Adelson.

ProceduralDefendant Decision to Testify — Colloquy5lines spoken

Summary

Charlie Adelson confirmed that he would testify, and the court recessed until the following morning for the start of his expected lengthy examination.

Day 6

Nov 2, 2023

DirectCharlie Adelson - Direct (Part 1)Charlie AdelsonDan Rashbaum10lines spoken

Summary

Charlie Adelson denied arranging Dan Markel's death and testified about family relocation disputes, cash, and his relationship with Katherine Magbanua.

sidebarText Message Foundation DisputeDuring Charlie Adelson - Direct (Part 1)1line spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether proposed text-message evidence was self-serving hearsay or relevant to state of mind and impeachment.

sidebarText Messages and Alleged MotiveDuring Charlie Adelson - Direct (Part 1)1line spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether text messages could be used for impeachment or to address the alleged motive rather than for their truth.

sidebarText Messages and State of Mind4lines spoken

Summary

Counsel discussed whether a broad set of text messages could be used to show the defendant's ordinary activities and state of mind during the relevant period.

DirectCharlie Adelson - Direct (Part 2)Charlie AdelsonDan Rashbaum4lines spoken

Summary

Charlie Adelson testified that payments to Katherine Magbanua were made under a claimed extortion threat after Dan Markel was shot.

sidebarText Messages and Later AdmissionDuring Charlie Adelson - Direct (Part 2)1line spoken

Summary

Counsel discussed questioning about selected text messages and potentially offering them into evidence later.

ProceduralPartial Admission of Composite Text Exhibit; Direct Examination Scheduling3lines spoken

Summary

The court partially admitted defense text messages, excluded the remainder, and warned the gallery against reacting during testimony.

sidebarMonday Closing Argument Schedule9lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed limiting the next day’s proceedings and postponing jury instructions and closing arguments until Monday.

Day 7

Nov 3, 2023

CrossCharlie Adelson - CrossCharlie AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman1highlight623lines spoken

Summary

Cappleman challenged Adelson's extortion account through his relationship with Magbanua, recorded calls, and his earlier silence; Adelson denied involvement in Dan Markel's murder.

Highlights (1)

confrontationCappleman pressed Adelson on the difference between what he said he believed in 2014 and his current claim that Katherine Magbanua and possibly Sigfredo Garcia extorted him.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

sidebarParties Rest and Plan Closings4lines spoken

Summary

The parties confirmed no additional defense witnesses or state rebuttal and discussed the schedule for jury instructions and closing arguments.

Day 8

Nov 6, 2023

ProceduralJury Instruction Corrections4lines spoken

Summary

The court addressed final instruction edits, approved a laptop for the jury room, and reminded spectators of courtroom rules.

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman1highlight24lines spoken

Summary

The State argued that the evidence tied Charlie Adelson to the alleged murder conspiracy, urged jurors to reject the extortion defense, and requested guilty verdicts.

Highlights (1)

Quote“The Prius led to Garcia and Rivera, which led to Magbanua; the bad blood and the divorce led to the Adelson family; the wire confirmed the defendant's specific involvement.”— Georgia CapplemanConcise statement of the State's claimed evidentiary path from the crime scene and family conflict to the defendant.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

sidebarReferences to Prior Trial ArgumentsDuring Closing Argument - Georgia Cappleman2lines spoken

Summary

Rashbaum objected that Cappleman was discussing defenses from earlier trials that had not been introduced into evidence.

ClosingClosing Argument - Dan RashbaumDan Rashbaum4lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel argued that conflicts in the evidence and an extortion explanation left reasonable doubt, then asked jurors to acquit Charlie Adelson on all counts.

sidebarJury Speculation During Closing ArgumentDuring Closing Argument - Dan Rashbaum3lines spoken

Summary

Cappleman objected to Rashbaum’s comments about juror speculation, citing the instruction that reasonable doubt is not speculative, imaginary, or forced.

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman1highlight5lines spoken

Summary

The State rebutted the defense's extortion and reasonable-doubt arguments, urged jurors to evaluate the evidence and credibility, and requested guilty verdicts.

Highlights (1)

Quote“Would I ask you to base this defendant's freedom on the word of Katherine Magbanua? That's what they said I'm doing. I would never do that. Never.”— Georgia CapplemanThe prosecutor emphasized that the State was not asking jurors to base the case solely on Katherine Magbanua's testimony.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

sentencing schedulingPresentence Investigation and Sentencing Scheduling4lines spoken

Summary

Charles Adelson was remanded pending sentencing; the court ordered a presentence investigation, permitted Zoom victim-impact testimony, and set a December 12 status date.

DADonna AdelsonAug 22, 2025 – Sep 4, 2025

Led the State's examinations and argument, challenging defense witnesses on timing, prior accounts, and the family-law dispute while advancing the State's alleged conspiracy theory. Her argument drew a defense objection on burden shifting and silence; the court overruled it, reiterated the State's burden, and later cautioned her on those subjects.

Day 1

Aug 22, 2025

Jury InstructionPreliminary Jury Instructions — Charges, Trial Procedure, and Juror Conduct4lines spoken

Summary

The court instructed jurors on the charges, the State's burden of proof, the defendant's right to remain silent, and restrictions on outside research and communication.

DirectJames Geiger - DirectJames GeigerGeorgia Cappleman65lines spoken

Summary

Neighbor James Geiger described hearing a loud sound, seeing a light-colored Prius leave next door, finding Dan Markel injured in his running vehicle, and calling 911.

sidebarWitness Sequestration Instructions2lines spoken

Summary

The parties invoked the witness-sequestration rule and clarified that Investigator Newlin remained excepted.

DirectDavid Sims - DirectDavid SimsGeorgia Cappleman37lines spoken

Summary

David Sims, the first officer on scene, described the vehicle and Daniel's condition, authenticated photographs, and testified that a house search found no one and no apparent burglary, robbery, or struggle.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia Cappleman78lines spoken

Summary

Joanne Maltese authenticated crime-scene and hospital evidence, described fingerprint processing, and testified about photographs showing shattered glass and an area she identified as consistent with stippling.

DirectAnthony Clark - DirectAnthony ClarkGeorgia Cappleman69lines spoken

Summary

Medical examiner Anthony Clark described two fatal gunshot wounds, close-range stippling evidence, a possible defensive arm position, and his homicide determination.

sidebarBrief Recess Over Crime Scene PhotosDuring Anthony Clark - Direct1line spoken

Summary

The court and counsel discussed the defendant’s reaction to crime scene photographs and whether she needed time before autopsy evidence.

ProceduralOJP — Contested Admissibility of Composite Email Exhibit 6438lines spoken

Summary

The court made several pre-witness rulings on disputed emails, permitting some as alleged motive evidence while requiring a limiting instruction, redaction, or further foundation for others.

DirectCraig Isom - DirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman78lines spoken

Summary

Craig Isom described the initial approach to wendi Adelson and the contentious custody litigation; the court deferred State's Exhibit 60 pending further foundation.

sidebarState's 60 Document DisputeDuring Craig Isom - Direct12lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether the selected divorce-file documents in State's 60 were sufficiently tied to the defendant's communications and whether duplicate documents should remain.

ProceduralOJP — Foundation Objection to Exhibit 64-AA (Shared Email Address)7lines spoken

Summary

The court addressed a foundation objection to Exhibit 64-AA and directed the State to begin laying foundation through Detective Isom where possible.

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Continued)Craig IsomGeorgia Cappleman238lines spoken

Summary

Isom described surveillance and toll records used to identify a rented Prius, then testified about Adelson Institute checks to Katherine Magbanua and gaps in the employment records.

RedirectCraig Isom - RedirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman10lines spoken

Summary

Isom confirmed that selected emails from a shared address were signed either "mom" or "mom and dad"; he was retained as a potential recall witness.

ProceduralOJP — Exhibit 60 Foundation Clarification10lines spoken

Summary

The court deferred admission of State's Exhibit 60 until the State completed its foundation, while allowing additional foundation through later witnesses.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman261lines spoken

Summary

Luis Rivera admitted his role under a cooperation agreement and described the alleged planning, shooting of Dan Markel, and cash payment that followed.

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraJackie L. Fulford22lines spoken

Summary

Rivera confirmed prior photo-sheet identifications and agreed that, as far as he knew, Donna Adelson and Harvey Adelson were not involved; the court later admitted State's Exhibits 37 and 121.

sidebarWendi Adelson Testimony SchedulingDuring Luis Rivera - Cross2lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed beginning Wendi Adelson's anticipated lengthy testimony on Monday after a predicate hearing concerning divorce documents.

sidebarMonday Predicate Hearing ScheduleDuring Luis Rivera - Cross7lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed delaying the predicate hearing and using an investigator, rather than Wendi Adelson, to authenticate documents and emails.

Day 2

Aug 25, 2025

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinGeorgia Cappleman28lines spoken

Summary

Newlin's proffer addressed the foundation for the 'Grandma Motion' tab and related emails in State's Exhibit 60.

RedirectJason Newlin - RedirectJason NewlinGeorgia Cappleman7lines spoken

Summary

Redirect began with a question about filings preceding tab JJ and a shared email address.

ProceduralFoundation Hearing: 'Grandma Motion' (State's Ex. 60-JJ) and Wendi Adelson Proffer Procedure (Resumed)Jason Newlin8lines spoken

Summary

The court conditionally allowed the disputed 'Grandma Motion' foundation to be developed and set a limiting instruction and Wendi Adelson proffer procedure.

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinGeorgia Cappleman210lines spoken

Summary

Jason Newlin explained the documentary foundation for State's Exhibit 60, which the court admitted except for tab JJ.

sidebarEmail Communication Foundation2lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed whether the foundation for admitting an item tied to an email address and related communications had been established.

RedirectJason Newlin - RedirectJason NewlinGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

Newlin described Wendi and the boys' post-murder move involving Donna and Harvey Adelson.

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman640lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson described the relocation dispute, family communications, Charlie Adelson's hitman joke, and her movements on the morning Dan Markel was killed while denying advance knowledge of the murder.

sidebarLunch Break TimingDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

The court discussed the estimated remaining time for direct and cross-examination before recessing for lunch.

sidebarChildren's Surname DocumentsDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct4lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed whether three admitted documents referring to the children as Adelson could be used to question the defendant about the children's name change.

CrossWendi Adelson - CrossWendi AdelsonJackie L. Fulford6lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson's cross-examination focused on relocation, family communications, and responsibility for Dan Markel's killing; the court also set limits on impeachment and later testimony from Robert Adelson.

sidebarTranscript Excerpt as DemonstrativeDuring Wendi Adelson - Cross3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel discussed using a brief transcript excerpt of earlier testimony as a demonstrative rather than admitting it for impeachment.

sidebarRobert Adelson Testimony LimitsDuring Wendi Adelson - Cross2lines spoken

Summary

The sidebar addressed the permitted scope of Robert Adelson's testimony after questioning about family contact and personality traits.

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman55lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson addressed the final relocation order, an email from Donna, and her account of Dan Markel's refusal to move to South Florida.

DirectRobert Adelson - DirectRobert AdelsonSarah Kathryn Dugan3lines spoken

Summary

Robert Adelson described family dynamics, Donna Adelson's involvement in wendi Adelson's divorce, and reported post-murder conversations.

sidebarSecret Boyfriend StatementDuring Robert Adelson - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed whether a statement about a secret boyfriend could be used to show its effect on a witness and an asserted effort to direct suspicion toward Jeff Lacasse.

sidebarJuror Appointment and Demonstrative5lines spoken

Summary

The sidebar addressed anonymizing a proposed family-law demonstrative and arranging time for Juror 3's Wednesday appointment.

Day 3

Aug 26, 2025

sidebarReported Juror Contact Concerns4lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disclosed an anonymous report about a possible jury-selection restroom conversation and asked about jurors and audience members sharing break areas, with no specific improper contact identified.

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman189lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse described his relationship with wendi Adelson, relocation-related conversations, and travel plans; the court also addressed co-conspirator testimony and a discovery violation.

sidebarCo-Conspirator Testimony FoundationDuring Jeffrey Lacasse - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

The parties disputed whether the evidence had yet connected Donna Adelson to a conspiracy for purposes of admitting co-conspirator-related testimony.

sidebarDiscovery Basis for Witness TestimonyDuring Jeffrey Lacasse - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

The sidebar addressed whether a witness's training-based information and prior statements had been disclosed in discovery, with disagreement over whether the testimony was expert evidence.

ProceduralWitness Locating Delay — June Umchinda3lines spoken

DirectJune Umchinda - DirectJune UmchindaGeorgia Cappleman114lines spoken

Summary

June Umchinda described Charlie Adelson's changed behavior during the investigation and recounted a qualified recollection of Donna Adelson's statement about Dan Markel.

CrossJune Umchinda - CrossJune UmchindaJackie L. Fulford3lines spoken

Summary

Defense tested June Umchinda's prior statements, including her speculation about the Adelsons and the exact wording she attributed to Donna.

DirectRyan Fitzpatrick - DirectRyan FitzpatrickGeorgia Cappleman37lines spoken

Summary

Ryan Fitzpatrick described Charlie Adelson's stapled-cash practice and said Charlie became agitated after the bump operation and later arrests.

ProceduralSidebar — Slide 38 Hearsay Ruling & Hull Late-Disclosure Accommodation3lines spoken

Summary

The court sustained a hearsay objection to planned slide 38, allowed defense time to speak with Mary Hull and review a revised PowerPoint, and directed the trial to proceed.

ProceduralTransition — Magbanua Called; Judge Admonishes Donna Adelson on Courtroom Conduct3lines spoken

DirectKatherine Magbanua - DirectKatherine MagbanuaGeorgia Cappleman1highlight307lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua admitted prior false testimony and described an alleged intermediary role, payments, payroll checks signed by Donna Adelson, and coded communications after the bump.

Highlights (1)

rulingAt sidebar, the court overruled the defense's objection to the last question but instructed Cappleman to use open-ended questions.Open in transcript →

sidebarLeading Questions ObjectionDuring Katherine Magbanua - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

Defense counsel objected that the prosecutor was leading the witness rather than eliciting the witness's own information.

RedirectKatherine Magbanua - RedirectKatherine MagbanuaGeorgia Cappleman10lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua confirmed the prosecution's alleged intermediary chain through Charlie and Garcia after the court overruled an objection.

Day 4

Aug 27, 2025

ProceduralDay 4 Court Convenes — Jury Greeted, Corbitt Examination Resumes4lines spoken

sidebarOpen-Line Audio Review3lines spoken

Summary

Counsel discussed giving the defense time to review original and enhanced versions of an open-line call recording and choose which version to publish.

DirectOscar Jimenez Jr. - DirectOscar Jimenez Jr.Georgia Cappleman49lines spoken

Summary

Former FBI agent Oscar Jimenez Jr. described an undercover contact with Donna Adelson and authenticated the flyer, recordings, and related calls admitted as State's Exhibits 83, 112, and 117.

sidebarGang Portrayal Testimony LimitsDuring Oscar Jimenez Jr. - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

The sidebar addressed the permissible scope of testimony about the witness's gang-member portrayal during an operation.

RedirectOscar Jimenez Jr. - RedirectOscar Jimenez Jr.Georgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

Jimenez said Donna Adelson was alone during the undercover approach, and the defense retained the option to recall him.

DirectLouis Bronstein - DirectLouis BronsteinGeorgia Cappleman34lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Louis Bronstein authenticated surveillance evidence from an April 2016 restaurant meeting; the court admitted related photographs and State's Exhibit 114 without objection.

DirectJames Keith McElveen - DirectJames Keith McElveenGeorgia Cappleman36lines spoken

Summary

Audio-forensics expert James Keith McElveen explained his enhancement method, and the court admitted enhanced recording exhibits from the Dolce vita and Matsuri restaurants.

DirectBrian Kendall - DirectBrian KendallGeorgia Cappleman21lines spoken

Summary

Brian Kendall described covertly recording Charles and Harvey Adelson at a Miami restaurant, and the court admitted State's Exhibit 131 without objection.

sidebarPat Sanford Testimony Schedule3lines spoken

Summary

The court and counsel discussed starting Pat Sanford's testimony, which was not expected to finish that day.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 1)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman170lines spoken

Summary

FBI agent Patrick Sanford described Prius corroboration, authenticated wiretap and undercover-contact evidence, and recounted the calls and surveillance that followed the contact.

sidebarLimits on Repetitive Phone Call QuestionsDuring Patrick Sanford - Direct (Part 1)4lines spoken

Summary

The defense objected that questioning after phone-call excerpts were published was repetitive, while the prosecution said it would highlight important portions and seek additional context.

Day 5

Aug 28, 2025

ProceduralRichardson Hearing — McElveen Enhanced Recording & Search Warrant Photos7lines spoken

Summary

The court found an inadvertent discovery violation involving an enhanced recording but no prejudice, and deferred review of newly disclosed search-warrant photographs.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 2)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman313lines spoken

Summary

Sanford presented wiretap and undercover-operation recordings, including the bump contacts and later calls among the Adelsons, Magbanua, and Garcia.

sidebarTime to Review Enhanced RecordingDuring Patrick Sanford - Direct (Part 2)2lines spoken

Summary

Counsel sought additional time to review an enhanced version of a 15-minute recording with the defendant before the State published it.

sidebarEarly Adjournment for Cross PreparationDuring Patrick Sanford - Direct (Part 2)1line spoken

Summary

Defense raised timing concerns about beginning cross-examination after additional calls and sought time to review recordings and compare a planner.

Day 6

Aug 29, 2025

sidebarCounsel Fitness and Bernhardt Recordings4lines spoken

Summary

The sidebar addressed Fulford's ability to continue examining witnesses and whether Bernhardt's recordings could be triggered by the defense's planned cross-examination.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 3)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman106lines spoken

Summary

Sanford testified about Magbanua's proffers, a recorded call discussing international travel, Donna Adelson's airport arrest, and a 2014 planner listing Dan Markel's vehicle tag number.

sidebarEmotional Reactions During TestimonyDuring Patrick Sanford - Direct (Part 3)

Summary

The court addressed concerns about emotional reactions during testimony and counsel's request to avoid any admonition before the jury.

sidebarObjection Withdrawn After ClarificationDuring Patrick Sanford - Direct (Part 3)

Summary

Defense counsel withdrew an objection after clarifying a misunderstanding about a communication between counsel.

DirectJonathan Grossman - DirectJonathan GrossmanGeorgia Cappleman41lines spoken

Summary

Detective Grossman authenticated and the court admitted photographs, Vietnam visas, and day-planner-page copies from the 2023 search of Donna Adelson's residence.

DirectDrina Bernhardt - DirectDrina BernhardtGeorgia Cappleman102lines spoken

Summary

Bernhardt identified an admitted notebook script she said Donna Adelson prepared for testimony about Katherine Magbanua and described alleged benefits connected to it.

RedirectDrina Bernhardt - RedirectDrina BernhardtGeorgia Cappleman14lines spoken

Summary

Bernhardt said she had no current plea offer, hoped for a future one, and denied supplying the story used in the script she attributed to Donna Adelson.

sidebarScript Handwriting Stipulation3lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed how to address the undisputed authorship of a script and whether it should be presented to the jury.

DirectKate Butler - DirectKate ButlerGeorgia Cappleman35lines spoken

Summary

FDLE handwriting examiner Kate Butler identified Donna Adelson's purported known writing as the source of the questioned handwriting in State's Exhibit 62.

Cross WaivedKate Butler - Cross (Waived)Kate ButlerJoshua D. Zelman4lines spoken

Summary

Defense waived cross-examination of Kate Butler and said it did not contest its client's authorship of the document.

sidebarExhibit 134 and Compensation Offers6lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed whether defense arguments denying compensation offers would permit additional evidence concerning Bernhardt and Exhibit 134.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - Redirect (Recall)Christopher CorbittSarah Kathryn Dugan4lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt clarified the timing of a 2016 article, described urgency in visa-related communications, and the court admitted the Spireon GPS certification without objection.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - RedirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman39lines spoken

Summary

Sanford addressed the extortion account, travel timing, and recorded-call context; the court sustained one objection to a probable-cause question.

ProceduralLunch Recess — On-Record Colloquy: Donna Adelson Consents to Jailhouse Informant Cross Strategy3lines spoken

Day 7

Sep 2, 2025

sidebarCoconspirator Statements Admissibility3lines spoken

Summary

The parties addressed whether coconspirator statements, including statements attributed to Charlie Adelson, met the requirements for admission.

sidebarFormer Counsel and Late Witnesses3lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed privilege waiver and cross-examination limits for former counsel, defense scheduling, and newly identified jail-related witnesses.

DirectAnn Elizabeth Cunningham - DirectAnn Elizabeth CunninghamJackie L. Fulford14lines spoken

Summary

A longtime friend described Mrs. Adelson's character and distress, while the court limited hearsay offered to explain Mrs. Adelson's state of mind and travel.

sidebarCharacter Evidence and RebuttalDuring Ann Elizabeth Cunningham - Direct1line spoken

Summary

The parties discussed whether a defense witness could offer character-related testimony and what other evidence the witness could provide about the time of the murder.

sidebarFoundation for Defendant StatementsDuring Ann Elizabeth Cunningham - Direct3lines spoken

Summary

The parties discussed whether a statement made the night of the killing could be offered to show the defendant's state of mind.

sidebarTravel State-of-Mind TestimonyDuring Ann Elizabeth Cunningham - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

The sidebar addressed limits on penalty-related questioning and whether testimony about the defendant's travel plans and state of mind could be admitted.

sidebarVietnam Trip TestimonyDuring Ann Elizabeth Cunningham - Direct1line spoken

Summary

The parties discussed whether testimony about Mrs. Adelson's stated reason for going to Vietnam could be offered without her testimony.

CrossAnn Elizabeth Cunningham - CrossAnn Elizabeth CunninghamGeorgia Cappleman62lines spoken

Summary

Cunningham's cross-examination tested her recollection of alleged extortion and highlighted her continuing belief that the Adelsons were innocent.

CrossRon Gutterson - CrossRon GuttersonGeorgia Cappleman19lines spoken

Summary

Gutterson agreed a warrant could affect a return trip and said his discussions about requested assistance were with Harvey, not Donna.

DirectKelsey Guay - DirectKelsey GuayJoshua D. Zelman6lines spoken

Summary

Digital-forensics examiner Kelsey Guay challenged frequency-chart totals in Adelson call records and gave limited cell-site testimony for July 18, 2014.

sidebarPotential Witness Disclosure Timing6lines spoken

Summary

The defense sought time to assess a newly identified potential witness before deciding whether to disclose and call the person, while the court discussed the anticipated afternoon witness schedule.

CrossRichard Shagran - CrossRichard ShagranGeorgia Cappleman12lines spoken

Summary

Cappleman tested Shagran's account of suggesting a one-way flight against his prior deposition description of his role as a technology conduit.

DirectJosh Turner - DirectJosh TurnerJoshua D. Zelman3lines spoken

Summary

Detective Josh Turner authenticated a silent jail video showing Bernhardt and Mrs. Adelson conversing and writing, while the defense emphasized that its content could not be determined.

CrossJosh Turner - CrossJosh TurnerGeorgia Cappleman34lines spoken

Summary

Turner connected Bernhardt's reported notebook instructions to the jail video, while acknowledging he was not a handwriting expert.

CrossAnn Elizabeth Cunningham - Cross (Recall)Ann Elizabeth CunninghamGeorgia Cappleman14lines spoken

Summary

Cunningham accepted phone calls reflected in the record and revised her account of the July 18 app communication from WhatsApp to Viber.

Day 8

Sep 3, 2025

ProceduralBailey Sequestration Dispute — Proffer and Ruling11lines spoken

Summary

The court ordered a proffer from Linda Bailey before ruling on the State's request to exclude her over an asserted sequestration violation.

profferLinda Bailey - State Proffer ExaminationLinda BaileyGeorgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

Bailey said Adamson's testimony gave her no new information.

DirectLinda Bailey - DirectLinda BaileyJoshua D. Zelman5lines spoken

Summary

Family-law expert Linda Bailey characterized the Adelson-Markel divorce as routine and amicable, while the court limited comparison testimony about an unrelated case.

sidebarFamily Reactions Raised at SidebarDuring Linda Bailey - Direct1line spoken

Summary

Defense counsel raised concern that audible reactions from the Markel family could affect how the jury perceives the defense.

CrossLinda Bailey - CrossLinda BaileyGeorgia Cappleman69lines spoken

Summary

The State challenged Bailey's assessment of the family litigation; Bailey acknowledged early emails showing Donna Adelson upset and agreed the pleadings were inflammatory.

DirectMarissel Descalzo - DirectMarissel DescalzoJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned1line spoken

Summary

Former attorney Marissel Descalzo described concerns about Donna Adelson's mental state, travel plans, and discussions about a possible arrest warrant.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectSara Newhouse - DirectSara NewhouseJoshua D. Zelman4lines spoken

Summary

Victim advocate Sara Newhouse described Donna Adelson as sounding shocked during Wendi Adelson's call and authenticated Defense 71, which was admitted with redactions.

CrossSara Newhouse - CrossSara NewhouseGeorgia Cappleman7lines spoken

Summary

Newhouse said she did not know Donna Adelson's normal demeanor; the court sustained a hearsay objection and struck a question about an alleged post-call comment by Wendi Adelson.

ProceduralOJP — Testify/Remain Silent/Exhibit Arguments7lines spoken

Summary

Donna Adelson declined to testify, the defense rested, and the court reserved ruling on proposed 2014 and 2023 calendar excerpts.

Charge ConferenceCharge Conference — Jury Instruction Settlement Before Closing Arguments14lines spoken

Summary

The court settled final jury instructions, including lesser offenses and credibility guidance, ruled on the verdict form, and set two hours per side for closing arguments.

Day 9

Sep 4, 2025

Jury InstructionFinal Jury Instructions5lines spoken

Summary

The court instructed jurors on the charges, burden of proof, witness evaluation, deliberation rules, and verdict form.

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman2highlights27lines spoken

Summary

Cappleman argued that the evidence tied Donna Adelson to an alleged murder-for-hire conspiracy; the court overruled a defense objection about burden shifting and the right to remain silent.

Highlights (2)

otherCappleman argued that the evidence showed Donna Adelson had a motive tied to the relocation dispute and participated in an alleged conspiracy to kill Dan Markel.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“Dan Markel is still the only victim in this case.”— Georgia CapplemanCappleman used this statement to frame the State's closing theory around Dan Markel and the alleged conspiracy.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

sidebarLunch Recess Before Closings1line spoken

Summary

The parties discussed taking a lunch recess after the State's initial closing so the defense could eat, prepare additions to its closing, and set up.

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia Cappleman (Resumed)Georgia Cappleman2highlights6lines spoken

Summary

Cappleman argued that recordings, documents, and alleged travel preparations undermined the extortion account and supported the State’s conspiracy theory.

Highlights (2)

testimony highlightCappleman argued that the alleged response to the undercover “bump,” including recorded contacts and actions involving Charlie Adelson and Katherine Magbanua, conflicted with the defense account of a prior extortion scheme.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“The primary risk of a conspiracy is that you are doing it with other people, right? You can get caught. Somebody can squeal. Somebody could give you up.”— Georgia CapplemanCappleman used this analogy to explain the State's claimed structure of the alleged conspiracy.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ProceduralLunch Recess — Demonstratives Admitted as Court Exhibits3lines spoken

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman2highlights4lines spoken

Summary

Cappleman rebutted defense themes, urging jurors to weigh the text, financial, and family-communication evidence together and reject the extortion account.

Highlights (2)

procedural actionCappleman told jurors that attorney argument was not evidence and urged them to decide between the parties’ competing interpretations of the record.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“Everyone that's responsible for this murder should be held accountable for their role, not just Charlie, not just the two killers that came here and shot him.”— Georgia CapplemanCappleman framed the State’s theory as one of individual accountability for every alleged participant.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

sidebarRequest for Additional Time1line spoken

Summary

The parties discussed a request for additional time.

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia Cappleman (Resumed)Georgia Cappleman2highlights2lines spoken

Summary

Cappleman completed the State's rebuttal and asked for guilty verdicts; the court then instructed jurors and sent the case to deliberations.

Highlights (2)

confrontationIn her resumed rebuttal, Cappleman argued that Donna Adelson's conduct on recorded calls, internet searches, cash discussion, and family communications contradicted the defense extortion account and supported the State's alleged conspiracy theory.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“It involves the two of us. Both of us.”— Georgia CapplemanCappleman highlighted this recorded statement as part of the State's rebuttal to the defense account.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Jury InstructionDeliberation Instructions and Jury Sent to Deliberate3lines spoken

Summary

Jurors received their instructions and notepads, were told to leave recorded-call transcripts outside the jury room, and began deliberations.

VerdictVerdict8lines spoken

Summary

The jury returned guilty verdicts on all three counts, confirmed unanimously by polling; the court adjudicated Donna Adelson guilty and set sentencing proceedings.