James C. Hankinson

GMGarcia–MagbanuaSep 26, 2019 – Oct 11, 2019

Judge James C. Hankinson presided over the joint trial, established courtroom procedures, resolved disclosure and admissibility disputes, and instructed jurors to consider each defendant and count separately. On Day 11, he read Garcia's mixed verdict and declared a mistrial as to Magbanua after the jury reported that it could not reach unanimity on any charge.

Day 1

Sep 26, 2019

ProceduralTrial Procedures and Sequestration Rulings39lines spoken

Summary

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

Jury InstructionPreliminary Jury Instructions1highlight4lines spoken

Summary

The court gave the jury foundational instructions on evidence, impartiality, outside research, and the defendants' right to remain silent.

Highlights (1)

Quote“Your verdict must be based solely on the evidence, or lack of evidence, and the law that I will explain to you.”— James C. HankinsonStates the governing basis for the jury's eventual verdict.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ProceduralOpening-Statement Evidence Ruling7lines 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 Cappleman38lines 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 - Direct6lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossJames Geiger - CrossJames GeigerSaam Zangeneh5lines spoken

Summary

Geiger estimated that he saw the departing vehicle for about ten to 15 seconds but could not identify its occupants or driver; he also said he likely stepped on glass near Markel's car.

RedirectJames Geiger - RedirectJames GeigerGeorgia Cappleman11lines 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.

sidebarJuror Question About House Location4lines spoken

Summary

The parties addressed a juror's question about whether Dan Markel's house was to the left or right when viewing the area.

Jury QuestionsJames Geiger - Juror QuestionsJames GeigerJames C. Hankinson10lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectDavid Sims - DirectDavid SimsGeorgia Cappleman5lines 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 Zangeneh7lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectStewart Schlazer - DirectStewart SchlazerGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossStewart Schlazer - CrossStewart SchlazerSaam Zangeneh8lines spoken

Summary

Schlazer said he could not now recall whether Markel said “person” or “persons,” but believed his prior statement used the singular.

ProceduralOpening-Statement Admonitions and Exhibit Logistics5lines spoken

Summary

The court set rules for names, objections, sidebars, and lunch-time review of marked exhibits.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia Cappleman32lines 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 - Direct5lines 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.

CrossJoanne Maltese - CrossJoanne MalteseSaam Zangeneh12lines spoken

Summary

Maltese described limits on her present recollection of scene measurements and confirmed that several garage items were not forensically examined.

DirectKerri Rosana - DirectKerri RosanaGeorgia Cappleman7lines 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 Cappleman10lines 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 Cappleman18lines 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 - Direct6lines 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 Cappleman9lines 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 Cappleman14lines 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 Padilla10lines 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 Cappleman15lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectAndrew Brown - DirectAndrew BrownGeorgia Cappleman13lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossAndrew Brown - CrossAndrew BrownSaam Zangeneh13lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarEnhanced Version Discovery ObjectionDuring Andrew Brown - Cross4lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectBrock Dietz - DirectBrock DietzGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossBrock Dietz - CrossBrock DietzSaam Zangeneh4lines spoken

Summary

Dietz said the State directed five rounds of clarifications to the surveillance-video exhibits, with a final copy provided the week before trial.

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.

DirectMichael Dillmore - DirectMichael DillmoreAnna Norris23lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebariCloud Contact Entry and Phone LinkDuring Michael Dillmore - Direct11lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossMichael Dillmore - CrossMichael DillmoreChristopher DeCoste5lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectMichael Dillmore - RedirectMichael DillmoreAnna Norris4lines spoken

Summary

Dillmore confirmed that investigators divided tasks, and the court retained him under sequestration.

DirectMarcia Rodriguez - DirectMarcia RodriguezAnna Norris28lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarPhone Contacts and Call LogsDuring Marcia Rodriguez - Direct19lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossMarcia Rodriguez - CrossMarcia RodriguezSaam Zangeneh7lines spoken

Summary

Rodriguez agreed that transferred digital material should not be manipulated or altered; the court kept her under sequestration.

sidebarOriginal Bus Footage3lines 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 Cappleman3lines 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 Zangeneh24lines 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 Depositions53lines 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 Cappleman5lines 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.

CrossRobert Shawn Yao - CrossRobert Shawn YaoSaam Zangeneh5lines spoken

Summary

Yao agreed the physical evidence alone did not permit a trajectory analysis and that changes to the assumed shooting conditions could affect his opinion.

RedirectRobert Shawn Yao - RedirectRobert Shawn YaoGeorgia Cappleman5lines 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 Cappleman126lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomSaam Zangeneh29lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomChristopher DeCoste41lines 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 Cappleman49lines spoken

Summary

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

RecrossCraig Isom - RecrossCraig IsomSaam Zangeneh8lines spoken

Summary

Isom acknowledged Rivera initially denied involvement, described the recorded and unrecorded interviews, and said he did not know the plea terms.

RecrossCraig Isom - RecrossCraig IsomChristopher DeCoste6lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectRonald Witt - DirectRonald WittAnna Norris10lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralWendi Adelson Immunity and Cross-Examination TimingWendi Adelson20lines 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 Cappleman27lines 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 Kawass21lines 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.

Jury QuestionsWendi Adelson - Juror QuestionsWendi AdelsonJames C. Hankinson21lines 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 MagbanuaWendi AdelsonTara Kawass5lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson said she could not remember the exact timing of an email discussed in relation to Katherine Magbanua's arrest.

ProceduralWendi Adelson Immunity Instruction and End-of-Day Logistics12lines spoken

Day 3

Oct 1, 2019

ProceduralRivera-Attorney Privilege and Brannon Sequestration Issues41lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectThomas Balboni - DirectThomas BalboniGeorgia Cappleman8lines 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.

CrossThomas Balboni - CrossThomas BalboniSaam Zangeneh8lines spoken

Summary

Balboni confirmed that his fingerprint work on the 2013 Miami pawn form was limited and that he did not pursue related records or surveillance.

Jury QuestionsThomas Balboni - Juror QuestionsThomas BalboniJames C. Hankinson13lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectLen Harvey - DirectLen HarveyGeorgia Cappleman13lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossLen Harvey - CrossLen HarveySaam Zangeneh4lines spoken

Summary

Harvey described limits in his surveillance review and camera coverage, and did not recall video of Garcia leaving the Prius.

Jury QuestionsLen Harvey - Juror QuestionsLen HarveyJames C. Hankinson16lines 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 Cappleman5lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossBill Brannon - CrossBill BrannonChristopher DeCoste5lines spoken

Summary

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

Jury QuestionsBill Brannon - Juror QuestionsBill BrannonJames C. Hankinson10lines spoken

Summary

Brannon said he learned Ms. Adelson's vehicle color before seeing the van, but could not recall exactly when.

Jury QuestionsBill Brannon - Juror Questions (Resumed)Bill BrannonJames C. Hankinson6lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia Cappleman14lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse testified that Wendi told him Charlie had explored having Markel killed during the prior relocation dispute, with uncertainty about the price. He also described an alleged celebration dinner and his travel around the homicide.

CrossJeffrey Lacasse - CrossJeffrey LacasseSaam Zangeneh5lines spoken

Summary

Lacasse was questioned about his travel timing, relationship with Wendi Adelson, and his reporting of a statement he attributed to her.

Jury QuestionsJeffrey Lacasse - Juror QuestionsJeffrey LacasseJames C. Hankinson27lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectStephen Lutes - DirectStephen LutesGeorgia Cappleman13lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossStephen Lutes - CrossStephen LutesSaam Zangeneh20lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittAnna Norris34lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarObjection to Unreviewed Jury DisplayDuring Christopher Corbitt - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittSaam Zangeneh12lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt acknowledged limits on what cell-phone records could show, while the court restricted questions about another Garcia phone but allowed the defense to recall him later.

sidebarCell Data Testimony ScopeDuring Christopher Corbitt - Cross6lines spoken

Summary

The defense sought to explore an alternative explanation involving phone numbers and cell data beyond the timeframe covered on direct examination.

sidebarJuror Questions About Phone Evidence12lines spoken

Summary

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

Jury QuestionsChristopher Corbitt - Juror QuestionsChristopher CorbittJames C. Hankinson6lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt said data use can cause tower contact, but not every carrier's records show that activity.

ProceduralRivera Hearsay and Disclosure Motions10lines 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 Cappleman54lines spoken

Summary

Testifying under a second-degree-murder plea and cooperation agreement, Rivera said Garcia recruited him and shot Markel; he attributed Magbanua's alleged hiring role to Garcia's account. The court reserved a discovery issue over a voice-identification exhibit.

sidebarVoice Identification and Discovery DisputeDuring Luis Rivera - Direct6lines 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 Zangeneh58lines 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 - Cross4lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarDrug-Dealing Question ScopeDuring Luis Rivera - Cross5lines spoken

Summary

At sidebar, counsel discussed whether a question about prior drug dealing could be supported by conduct addressed in the witness's factual proffer.

Day 4

Oct 2, 2019

ProceduralVoice-Identification Exhibit Ruling17lines 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 Procedure24lines 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 Zangeneh60lines 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 - Cross3lines 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.

sidebarQuestion About Remaining SilentDuring Luis Rivera - Cross4lines spoken

Summary

The court raised concern that a proposed question could draw a comment on the client's right to remain silent, and counsel withdrew it.

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraTara Kawass28lines 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.

sidebarMistrial Motion Over Cocaine TestimonyDuring Luis Rivera - Cross7lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed testimony suggesting Garcia sold cocaine and the limits on further questioning about it.

ProceduralRivera Impeachment, Cocaine Evidence, and Severance Rulings24lines 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 Kawass37lines 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 Cappleman30lines 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. Hankinson8lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectJonathan Grossman - DirectJonathan GrossmanGeorgia Cappleman7lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossJonathan Grossman - CrossJonathan GrossmanSaam Zangeneh3lines spoken

Summary

Grossman acknowledged limits in his familiarity with the rental agreement and in the vehicle investigation's scope and initial inspection.

Jury QuestionsJonathan Grossman - Juror QuestionsJonathan GrossmanJames C. Hankinson24lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectKeith Leland - DirectKeith LelandGeorgia Cappleman5lines 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. Hankinson13lines spoken

Summary

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

Jury QuestionsKeith Leland - Juror Questions (Resumed)Keith LelandJames C. Hankinson8lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectShoddrick Nobles - DirectShoddrick NoblesGeorgia Cappleman10lines 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 Zangeneh13lines spoken

Summary

Garcia's counsel challenged Nobles's motel account and later police contact. Nobles denied seeing Garcia with a gun but described Rivera picking up and holding one and being aggressive.

RedirectShoddrick Nobles - RedirectShoddrick NoblesGeorgia Cappleman5lines 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 Cappleman15lines 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.

DirectWaldo Mesa Nunez - DirectWaldo Mesa NunezAnna Norris13lines spoken

Summary

A former rental-car sales representative authenticated records showing two vehicles rented to Sigfredo Garcia on consecutive days.

CrossWaldo Mesa Nunez - CrossWaldo Mesa NunezSaam Zangeneh14lines spoken

Summary

Cross-examination linked a traffic citation to the rental vehicle's license plate, while the witness said he could not say who used the car after rental.

DirectDaren Schwartz - DirectDaren SchwartzAnna Norris4lines spoken

Summary

Rental-car owner Daren Schwartz identified features and records for the Prius rented to Luis Rivera; the court admitted GPS business records.

CrossDaren Schwartz - CrossDaren SchwartzSaam Zangeneh7lines spoken

Summary

Schwartz said he did not see Garcia enter the rental business and understood Rivera rented the Prius alone.

DirectElizabeth Richey - DirectElizabeth RicheyGeorgia Cappleman4lines 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 Issue14lines spoken

Day 5

Oct 3, 2019

ProceduralEvidentiary Rulings and Jury-Instruction Conference58lines 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 Cappleman13lines 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 Cappleman4lines 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. Hankinson15lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectYindra Velazquez Mascaro - DirectYindra Velazquez MascaroAnna Norris15lines spoken

Summary

Mascaro described Magbanua's relationships and work history, an accident account she later learned referred to Markel's murder, and a Lexus she said Charlie gave Magbanua.

CrossYindra Velazquez Mascaro - CrossYindra Velazquez MascaroSaam Zangeneh11lines spoken

Summary

Cross-examination focused on Mascaro's limited knowledge of Rivera and Magbanua's relationships with Adelson and Garcia.

CrossYindra Velazquez Mascaro - CrossYindra Velazquez MascaroTara Kawass8lines spoken

Summary

Cross-examination tested Mascaro's prior affidavit and her memory of a July 2014 car-accident call while eliciting relationship and employment context about Magbanua.

Jury QuestionsYindra Velazquez Mascaro - Juror QuestionsYindra Velazquez MascaroJames C. Hankinson16lines spoken

Summary

Mascaro said she lacked knowledge about Magbanua's pay, relationship timing, and Garcia's whereabouts during an overnight childcare incident.

Jury QuestionsYindra Velazquez Mascaro - Juror Question Follow-up by MagbanuaYindra Velazquez MascaroTara Kawass3lines spoken

Summary

Mascaro said she rarely watched Katherine's children before the court excused her.

DirectClariza Lebredo - DirectClariza LebredoAnna Norris7lines spoken

Summary

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

Jury QuestionsClariza Lebredo - Juror Questions (Resumed)Clariza LebredoJames C. Hankinson10lines spoken

Summary

Lebredo said Erika might also check voice mail, though Lebredo usually checked it first.

Jury QuestionsClariza Lebredo - Juror Question Follow-up by GarciaClariza LebredoSaam Zangeneh7lines spoken

Summary

Lebredo described limits on access to the earlier office voice-mail system and said she did not know whether calls could be forwarded to Dr. Harvey Adelson.

DirectErika Johnson - DirectErika JohnsonAnna Norris19lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectErika Johnson - RedirectErika JohnsonAnna Norris25lines spoken

Summary

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

RecrossErika Johnson - RecrossErika JohnsonChristopher DeCoste4lines spoken

Summary

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

Jury QuestionsErika Johnson - Juror QuestionsErika JohnsonJames C. Hankinson7lines spoken

Summary

The judge excused Erika Johnson and explained that a records subpoena does not provide immunity.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittAnna Norris52lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralGarcia Traffic Citation Discovery Inquiry7lines spoken

Summary

The court directed further research into whether the image of Garcia's traffic citation had been disclosed.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - Direct (Recall, Part 2)Christopher CorbittAnna Norris29lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralTraffic Citation and Cell-Site Demonstrative Rulings33lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittSaam Zangeneh8lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt acknowledged limits on cell-site precision and handset attribution, while agreeing Rivera's listed Miami Beach address differed from a North Miami map label.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste50lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduraliCloud Evidence, Sequestration, and Recording Admissibility Rulings11lines spoken

Summary

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

Day 6

Oct 4, 2019

ProceduralGarcia Traffic Citation Richardson Ruling1highlight16lines spoken

Summary

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

Highlights (1)

Quote“I do, to be clear, say there was a discovery violation, but those are my findings, particularly as to Mr. Garcia.”— James C. HankinsonThe court expressly found a discovery violation while denying exclusion of the traffic citation.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

CrossChristopher Corbitt - Cross (Continued)Christopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste13lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittAnna Norris27lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralRivera Phone-Number Relevance Ruling34lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - Redirect (Recall, Part 2)Christopher CorbittAnna Norris14lines spoken

Summary

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

RecrossChristopher Corbitt - RecrossChristopher CorbittSaam Zangeneh10lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt described limits on iCloud and call-detail records during Garcia's recross, and the court limited the questioning to iCloud records.

Jury QuestionsChristopher Corbitt - Juror Questions (Recall)Christopher CorbittJames C. Hankinson23lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectMary Hull - DirectMary HullAnna Norris84lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralMagbanua Employment-Record Exhibit and Privacy Rulings17lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralFHP Protocol Discovery Dispute and Scheduling8lines 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.

DirectMary Hull - Direct (Part 2)Mary HullAnna Norris58lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossMary Hull - CrossMary HullSaam Zangeneh6lines spoken

Summary

Garcia's counsel tested gaps in Hull's vehicle-price records and the limited scope of her financial review.

CrossMary Hull - CrossMary HullChristopher DeCoste32lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralMagbanua Text-Message Exhibit Rulings14lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossMary Hull - Cross (Part 2)Mary HullChristopher DeCoste11lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectMary Hull - RedirectMary HullAnna Norris39lines spoken

Summary

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

RecrossMary Hull - RecrossMary HullChristopher DeCoste3lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectOscar Jimenez Jr. - DirectOscar Jimenez Jr.Georgia Cappleman33lines 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 Schedule10lines 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 Rulings26lines 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 Rulings1highlight98lines 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.

Highlights (1)

Quote“There's no doubt in my mind that the jury listening to this conversation would simply be reading the transcript. They would not be listening to the recording.”— James C. HankinsonThe court explained why it would not permit the transcript to accompany the recording.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittAnna Norris10lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt explained wiretap monitoring, minimization, and recording procedures as the court allowed testimony about code talk in deciding whether to minimize calls.

sidebarObjection to Coded Conversation TestimonyDuring Christopher Corbitt - Direct2lines spoken

Summary

Counsel objected to testimony characterizing conversations as code and sought a Daubert hearing if Sergeant Corbitt were offered as an expert.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittSaam Zangeneh4lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt described limits on the wiretap investigation and said he generally did not make minimization decisions.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste9lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebar2016 Call Records ClarificationDuring Christopher Corbitt - Cross7lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittAnna Norris3lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt described judicial oversight and prospective limits of wiretap monitoring.

DirectSherrie Bennett - DirectSherrie BennettGeorgia Cappleman5lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectPatrick Sanford - DirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman68lines 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 - Direct6lines 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 - Direct5lines spoken

Summary

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

Voir DirePatrick Sanford - Voir Dire (Christopher DeCoste)Patrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste3lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarInterview Testimony and Redaction Concern3lines 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 Sanford19lines 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 Cappleman10lines 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 Zangeneh45lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossPatrick Sanford - Cross (Part 2)Patrick SanfordSaam Zangeneh5lines spoken

Summary

Garcia's counsel questioned Sanford about Rivera's account and investigative follow-up; Sanford confirmed Rivera alone identified Garcia as the shooter.

ProceduralClosing-Argument, Wiretap, and Penalty-Phase Logistics31lines spoken

Summary

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

Day 8

Oct 8, 2019

ProceduralClosing-Argument Schedule and Charge-Conference Logistics5lines spoken

Summary

The court addressed closing-preparation expectations, the upcoming charge conference, and the jury's 9 o'clock return.

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste108lines 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 - Cross6lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarPossible Undisclosed Agent MeetingDuring Patrick Sanford - Cross2lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarUse of Adelson CallsDuring Patrick Sanford - Cross6lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectPatrick Sanford - RedirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

The State briefly clarified the Club Fate check's memo line on redirect as the court sustained one objection and overruled two others.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman12lines 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)3lines 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 Cappleman11lines 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)3lines spoken

Summary

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

RecrossPatrick Sanford - RecrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCoste7lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarJuror Questions on Financial Records24lines 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 Questions (Resumed)Patrick SanfordJames C. Hankinson18lines spoken

Summary

Sanford answered juror questions about tax, employment, bank, gun-search, and undercover-call records.

ProceduralJuror Evidence Questions and Lunch Recess4lines spoken

DirectLouis Bronstein - DirectLouis BronsteinGeorgia Cappleman6lines 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.

CrossLouis Bronstein - CrossLouis BronsteinChristopher DeCoste5lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Recall)Craig IsomGeorgia Cappleman4lines 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 Arrest12lines 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 DeCoste5lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarJuror Question and Mistrial Motion13lines spoken

Summary

The court denied Magbanua's mistrial request over a juror-question exchange and proposed reminding jurors that questions are not evidence.

sidebarTax Summary Exhibit Objections10lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectMary Hull - Direct (Recall)Mary HullAnna Norris25lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralState Rests and Judgments of Acquittal14lines spoken

Summary

The State rested, and the court denied Garcia's and Magbanua's motions for judgments of acquittal before the defense case began.

CrossStephen Downing - CrossStephen DowningGeorgia Cappleman5lines 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.

RedirectStephen Downing - RedirectStephen DowningSaam Zangeneh7lines spoken

Summary

Downing said the citation's passenger field defaulted to “no” unless he entered a passenger number, then acknowledged related deposition testimony.

DirectJohn Sawicki - DirectJohn SawickiSaam Zangeneh7lines spoken

Summary

Defense expert John Sawicki described limits in iCloud, call-detail, and cell-tower records, including messages absent from Charlie Adelson's backup.

CrossJohn Sawicki - CrossJohn SawickiChristopher DeCoste4lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossJohn Sawicki - CrossJohn SawickiAnna Norris4lines spoken

Summary

Sawicki agreed his message total could include non-text notifications and that phone activity could be consistent with Jessica Rodriguez's house.

RedirectJohn Sawicki - RedirectJohn SawickiSaam Zangeneh7lines spoken

Summary

Sawicki said he lacked all of Luis Rivera's contact information and agreed that deleted FaceTime activity or disposable phones can limit phone-record comparisons.

ProceduralGarcia Waives Testimony and Rests22lines spoken

Summary

Garcia declined to testify after a court colloquy, and his defense formally rested.

DirectMichael Dillmore - DirectMichael DillmoreChristopher DeCoste19lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarPhone Records Relevance ObjectionDuring Michael Dillmore - Direct4lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste17lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittAnna Norris4lines spoken

Summary

Corbitt clarified GPS and phone-record evidence about rental-vehicle locations after the court overruled a scope objection.

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinChristopher DeCoste26lines 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 - Direct8lines 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 - Direct6lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Recall)Craig IsomChristopher DeCoste13lines spoken

Summary

On recall, Isom agreed that preschool attendance conflicted with Rivera's reported account of Wendi and the boys and said he understood the reported call direction was reversed, while preserving limits of the unrecorded meeting report.

ProceduralRivera Apple Subscriber Record Ruling19lines 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 Testimony32lines 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 Kawass62lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua denied involvement and personal knowledge tying Charlie Adelson to the crime, but said she believed from what she had seen that he was involved and had lied to her.

sidebarRelationship Evidence and Severance MotionDuring Katherine Magbanua - Direct9lines spoken

Summary

Counsel disputed questions about an alleged affair and the permissible scope of relationship-conflict evidence.

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 MagbanuaSaam Zangeneh7lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua agreed Garcia was upset about Charlie Adelson, described Rivera's criminal reputation, and said Garcia's family trip was planned in advance.

CrossKatherine Magbanua - CrossKatherine Magbanua12lines 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 Kawass10lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralMagbanua Employment-Statement Ruling35lines 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 Kawass15lines 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 Exhibits19lines 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.

Jury QuestionsKatherine Magbanua - Juror QuestionsKatherine MagbanuaJames C. Hankinson20lines spoken

Summary

Magbanua answered juror questions about promotion work, unreported tips, and past food-stamp benefits.

ProceduralMagbanua Defense Rests10lines spoken

DirectChristopher Corbitt - Direct (Recall)Christopher CorbittAnna Norris19lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCoste36lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarDisputed Texts and Wire CallDuring Christopher Corbitt - Cross26lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarNext-Day Closing Schedule8lines 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.

ProceduralRebuttal Completed and Renewed Judgments of Acquittal5lines spoken

Summary

The court denied Garcia's renewed judgment-of-acquittal motion; Magbanua renewed her own motion after the jury was excused.

ProceduralFinal Jury-Instruction Conference131lines spoken

Summary

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

ProceduralFinal Instruction Changes and Verdict Forms6lines spoken

Summary

The court finalized revised jury instructions and verdict forms without objection, then recessed until 8:30 the next morning.

Day 10

Oct 10, 2019

Jury InstructionFinal Jury Instructions - Charges and Deliberation Law1highlight7lines spoken

Summary

The court instructed jurors on the charges, burden of proof, credibility, deliberation rules, and separate verdict forms for Garcia and Magbanua.

Highlights (1)

Quote“The defendants are not required to present evidence or prove anything.”— James C. HankinsonStates that the burden of proof remains with the State.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman13lines spoken

Summary

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

ClosingClosing Argument - Saam ZangenehSaam Zangeneh3lines spoken

Summary

Zangeneh attacked Luis Rivera's credibility, disputed the State's corroborating evidence, and urged acquittal based on reasonable doubt.

Jury InstructionFinal Jury Instructions - Firearm and Technical Corrections8lines spoken

Summary

The court corrected the firearm-aggravation instruction and made technical revisions to the final jury instructions without objection from Garcia's counsel.

ClosingClosing Argument - Christopher DeCosteChristopher DeCoste7lines spoken

Summary

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

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman3lines spoken

Summary

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

Jury InstructionDeliberation Instructions and Alternate Juror10lines 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 Logistics31lines spoken

Jury InstructionSupplemental Jury Instructions - Principal Liability6lines spoken

Jury InstructionJury Question - Cell-Tower Demonstrative21lines spoken

Day 11

Oct 11, 2019

Jury InstructionJury Question - Premeditation and Principal Liability11lines spoken

Jury InstructionJury Questions - Principal Liability and Split Verdicts27lines spoken

ProceduralSplit-Verdict Procedure and Allen-Charge Ruling8lines spoken

VerdictSigfredo Garcia Verdict and Jury Polling1highlight18lines spoken

Summary

The jury found Sigfredo Garcia guilty of first-degree murder and conspiracy, not guilty on Count 3, and unanimously confirmed the verdict in a poll.

Highlights (1)

Quote“we, the jury, find as follows as to Count 1: The defendant is guilty of first degree murder.”— James C. HankinsonThe court's reading of the verdict records the jury's first-degree-murder finding against Garcia.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ProceduralGarcia Sentencing and Magbanua Deliberations9lines spoken

Summary

Garcia was remanded pending Monday sentencing proceedings as the court addressed mitigation and an expert evaluation; Magbanua's jury continued deliberating.

ProceduralMagbanua Mistrial Scheduling and Representation17lines spoken

Summary

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

VerdictKatherine Magbanua Jury Deadlock Confirmation1highlight1line spoken

Summary

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

Highlights (1)

Quote“as to Ms. Magbanua the jury is unable to come to a unanimous decision on any of the three charges”— James C. HankinsonThe court stated the jury's reported deadlock on all three charges against Magbanua.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ProceduralMagbanua Mistrial Declaration and Garcia Sentencing Jury Logistics5lines spoken

Summary

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

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