Defendant

Sigfredo Garcia

The man convicted as the gunman in the 2014 killing of Dan Markel, tried as a defendant in 2019 and discussed as a central figure in the three later Markel-case trials.

DefendantGarcia–Magbanua

AppearedGarcia–Magbanua

MentionedMagbanua Retrial Charlie Adelson Donna Adelson

682 lines·203 proceedings·202 mentions·4 trials

About

Garcia was tried jointly with Katherine Magbanua in 2019 on charges arising from Dan Markel's killing. The State alleged that Magbanua solicited Garcia, who recruited Luis Rivera, and relied on phone, location, rental, surveillance, financial, ballistic, and fingerprint evidence; Garcia's defense challenged Rivera's credibility and argued that the remaining evidence did not adequately corroborate his account. Garcia elected not to testify, and the jury convicted him of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder while finding him not guilty on Count 3. In later proceedings, Rivera testified that Garcia brought him into the plan, traveled with him to Tallahassee, shot Markel, and shared cash delivered by Magbanua. Investigators and other witnesses addressed rental, vehicle, phone, location, payment, and recorded evidence concerning Garcia, while the defenses disputed what that evidence established about Magbanua, Charlie Adelson, and Donna Adelson. Garcia did not testify live in Charlie Adelson's or Donna Adelson's trials, although his recorded voice was presented during the former.

Trial Record (203)

GMGarcia–MagbanuaSep 26, 2019 – Oct 11, 2019

Sigfredo Garcia was tried jointly under a State theory that he recruited Luis Rivera to carry out Dan Markel's killing, while his defense argued that Rivera's plea benefits and changing accounts left reasonable doubt. On Day 11, the jury found Garcia guilty of first-degree murder and conspiracy and not guilty on Count 3, with all jurors confirming the verdict when polled.

Day 1

Sep 26, 2019

OpeningOpening Statement - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman1highlightMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (1)

evidence eventThe prosecutor outlined the State's expected phone-record evidence and alleged that it would connect Garcia and Rivera to Tallahassee on the date of the killing.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

OpeningOpening Statement - Saam ZangenehSaam Zangeneh2highlightsMentioned

Summary

Garcia's counsel challenged Rivera's expected testimony and argued that Rivera was the shooter, not Garcia.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (2)

confrontationGarcia's counsel argued that Rivera's seven-year plea arrangement gave him a motive to shape his account around the prosecution's theory.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

confrontationCounsel advanced the defense position that Rivera was the shooter and that Garcia's presence in Tallahassee was connected to drug activity rather than the killing.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

OpeningOpening Statement - Tara KawassTara KawassMentioned

Summary

Kawass argued that Magbanua was innocent, previewed alternative explanations for the State's financial evidence, and challenged Luis Rivera's anticipated reliability.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 2

Sep 27, 2019

DirectCraig Isom - DirectCraig IsomGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectCraig Isom - RedirectCraig IsomGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 3

Oct 1, 2019

DirectThomas Balboni - DirectThomas BalboniGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossThomas Balboni - CrossThomas BalboniSaam ZangenehMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossThomas Balboni - CrossThomas BalboniChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossLen Harvey - CrossLen HarveySaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittAnna NorrisMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittSaam ZangenehMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

Corbitt clarified the limits of his investigative role and confirmed Garcia's handset communicated with a T-Mobile tower near Premier Health and Fitness.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraSaam ZangenehMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 4

Oct 2, 2019

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraTara KawassMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralRivera Impeachment, Cocaine Evidence, and Severance RulingsMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossLuis Rivera - Cross (Part 2)Luis RiveraTara KawassMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectLuis Rivera - RedirectLuis RiveraGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectShoddrick Nobles - DirectShoddrick NoblesGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossShoddrick Nobles - CrossShoddrick NoblesSaam ZangenehMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectWaldo Mesa Nunez - DirectWaldo Mesa NunezAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossWaldo Mesa Nunez - CrossWaldo Mesa NunezSaam ZangenehMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectDaren Schwartz - DirectDaren SchwartzAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossDaren Schwartz - CrossDaren SchwartzSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 5

Oct 3, 2019

ProceduralEvidentiary Rulings and Jury-Instruction ConferenceMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectYindra Velazquez Mascaro - DirectYindra Velazquez MascaroAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

A friend described Magbanua's relationships, employment history, a July 2014 reported accident, and a Lexus she said Charlie Adelson gave Magbanua.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossYindra Velazquez Mascaro - CrossYindra Velazquez MascaroSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossYindra Velazquez Mascaro - CrossYindra Velazquez MascaroTara KawassMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectYindra Velazquez Mascaro - RedirectYindra Velazquez MascaroAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

Mascaro clarified the accuracy of a law-enforcement report, relationship timing, the reported-accident call, and employment details.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Jury QuestionsYindra Velazquez Mascaro - Juror QuestionsYindra Velazquez MascaroJames C. HankinsonMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralGarcia Traffic Citation Discovery InquiryMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralTraffic Citation and Cell-Site Demonstrative RulingsMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittSaam ZangenehMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCosteMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 6

Oct 4, 2019

ProceduralGarcia Traffic Citation Richardson RulingMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - Cross (Continued)Christopher CorbittChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RecrossChristopher Corbitt - RecrossChristopher CorbittSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectMary Hull - DirectMary HullAnna NorrisMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossMary Hull - CrossMary HullSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossMary Hull - CrossMary HullChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectMary Hull - RedirectMary HullAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossOscar Jimenez Jr. - CrossOscar Jimenez Jr.Saam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

Garcia's counsel challenged the undercover bump's preparation and scope; Jimenez described his instructions and limits on his knowledge.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossOscar Jimenez Jr. - CrossOscar Jimenez Jr.Christopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 7

Oct 7, 2019

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectPatrick Sanford - DirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned128lines spoken

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 3)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralGarcia FBI Interview ProfferPatrick SanfordMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 4)Patrick SanfordGeorgia Cappleman165lines 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 ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralClosing-Argument, Wiretap, and Penalty-Phase LogisticsMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 8

Oct 8, 2019

Jury QuestionsPatrick Sanford - Juror Questions (Resumed)Patrick SanfordJames C. HankinsonMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Jury QuestionsPatrick Sanford - Juror Question Follow-up by the StatePatrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Jury QuestionsPatrick Sanford - Juror Question Follow-up by MagbanuaPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossLouis Bronstein - CrossLouis BronsteinSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

Bronstein said he did not make investigative decisions and described the laptop-sized messenger-bag device used for the surveillance recording.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectMary Hull - Direct (Recall)Mary HullAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralGarcia Waives Testimony and RestsMentioned11lines spoken

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectMichael Dillmore - DirectMichael DillmoreChristopher DeCosteMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Recall)Craig IsomChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 9

Oct 9, 2019

DirectKatherine Magbanua - DirectKatherine MagbanuaTara KawassMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossKatherine Magbanua - CrossKatherine MagbanuaSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossKatherine Magbanua - CrossKatherine MagbanuaMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralMagbanua Employment-Statement RulingMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - Direct (Recall)Christopher CorbittAnna NorrisMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

Corbitt said the phone records did not show whether Garcia knew of the mechanic's connection to Charlie Adelson and could be consistent with a car repair.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCosteMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

Corbitt confirmed the State's interpretation of records involving Magbanua, Harvey Adelson, Garcia, and a business phone number.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 10

Oct 10, 2019

Jury InstructionFinal Jury Instructions - Charges and Deliberation LawMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia Cappleman1highlightMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (1)

evidence eventThe State played excerpts from undercover-operation recordings and argued that the calls showed Magbanua, Garcia, and Charlie Adelson responding to the purported extortion contact.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ClosingClosing Argument - Saam ZangenehSaam Zangeneh2highlightsMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (2)

otherZangeneh argues that the records and surveillance evidence do not directly place Garcia at the murder scene and offers an alternative account centered on Rivera.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

procedural actionZangeneh asks jurors to apply the reasonable-doubt instruction and return a verdict rejecting the State's case against Garcia.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Jury InstructionFinal Jury Instructions - Firearm and Technical CorrectionsMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 11

Oct 11, 2019

VerdictSigfredo Garcia Verdict and Jury Polling1highlightMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (1)

jury eventThe court announced the jury's verdicts for Sigfredo Garcia: guilty of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and not guilty on Count 3.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

ProceduralGarcia Sentencing and Magbanua DeliberationsMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

KMMagbanua RetrialMay 18, 2022 – May 27, 2022

Competing trial accounts placed Garcia with Luis Rivera in the killing and disputed whether Magbanua connected them to the Adelson family.

Day 1

May 18, 2022

OpeningOpening Statement - Sarah Kathryn DuganSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

The State previewed an alleged murder-for-hire scheme and said records, recordings, and Luis Rivera's anticipated account would link Katherine Magbanua to it.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

OpeningOpening Statement - Tara KawassTara Kawass1highlightMentioned

Summary

Kawass argued that the evidence would show Magbanua did not know of the alleged killing plan and challenged the State's expected proof.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (1)

Quote“We are going to prove to you beyond any doubt that Charles Adelson conspired directly with Sigfredo Garcia behind Katie's back to have Dan Markel killed.”— Tara KawassStates the defense's central alternative theory and its claim that Magbanua lacked knowledge.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

DirectCraig Isom - DirectCraig IsomGeorgia Cappleman1highlightMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (1)

testimony highlightIsom testified that rental and SunPass records led investigators to a Prius rented by Luis Rivera and identified Sigfredo Garcia as the person associated with a listed "Brother" phone number.Open in transcript →

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomChristopher DeCosteMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectCraig Isom - RedirectCraig IsomGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 2

May 19, 2022

CrossMarcia Rodriguez - CrossMarcia RodriguezChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossWendi Adelson - CrossWendi AdelsonChristopher DeCosteMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman1highlightMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (1)

Quote“Garcia jumped out, went around the car to the driver side, shot him.”— Luis RiveraRivera gave a concise eyewitness account of the shooting he said occurred at Markel's home.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

CrossLuis Rivera - Cross (Part 1)Luis RiveraChristopher DeCosteMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 3

May 20, 2022

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

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossLuis Rivera - Cross (Part 2)Luis RiveraChristopher DeCoste2highlightsMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (2)

testimony highlightRivera ultimately said he had come to Tallahassee twice but recalled saying that Sigfredo Garcia and King Anthony made a third trip; he said Garcia had told him about it.Open in transcript →

Quote“It's only girl he speaks to is Katie. whatever she tells him to do, he jumps and do it. That's his weakness, her, right there.”— Luis RiveraRivera rejected the defense suggestion that the State had supplied Magbanua's role and reiterated his account of her influence over Garcia.Open in transcript →

RedirectLuis Rivera - RedirectLuis RiveraGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectWaldo Mesa Nunez - DirectWaldo Mesa NunezSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Nunez authenticated rental records listing Sigfredo Garcia as the renter of a Nissan Altima and recording its exchange for a Hyundai Sonata the next day.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossWaldo Mesa Nunez - CrossWaldo Mesa NunezTara KawassMentioned

Summary

Nunez said he relied on rental records rather than independent memory and could not determine the second vehicle exchange time from the record reviewed.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectWaldo Mesa Nunez - RedirectWaldo Mesa NunezSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Nunez clarified that the first contract recorded its creation time, while the second did not establish the vehicle-exchange time.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - Direct (Continued)Christopher CorbittSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Corbitt described a 934 number saved as "Tato" in Magbanua's iCloud contacts and testified that attempted June and July calls to it did not connect.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 4

May 23, 2022

ProceduralWork Product Dispute Over Defense Attorney's Recorded Calls with GarciaMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossChristopher Corbitt - Cross (Continued)Christopher CorbittChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectYindra Velazquez Mascaro - DirectYindra Velazquez MascaroSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

A longtime friend described Magbanua's relationships, work history, and an attributed July 2014 account; the court admitted several location, photograph, and vehicle exhibits.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossYindra Velazquez Mascaro - CrossYindra Velazquez MascaroTara KawassMentioned

Summary

Mascaro acknowledged uncertainty about several dates and said an unrecorded 2016 police report misstated her uncertainty over who paid for Magbanua's surgery.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectYindra Velazquez Mascaro - RedirectYindra Velazquez MascaroSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Mascaro clarified limits on her knowledge of Magbanua's payroll arrangement and surgery payment, reaffirmed an error in a police report, and described her limited reaction to Garcia's arrest.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralEnd of Day — Jail Call Admissibility Rulings and SchedulingMentioned

Summary

The court excluded counsel-and-Garcia and Spanish jail calls, allowed English calls for the State's stated impeachment use, and set a Crawford hearing and Wednesday jury-instruction deadline.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 5

May 24, 2022

DirectJessica Rodriguez - DirectJessica RodriguezGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossJessica Rodriguez - CrossJessica RodriguezTara KawassMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectMary Hull - DirectMary HullSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossMary Hull - CrossMary HullChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectMary Hull - RedirectMary HullSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectOscar Jimenez Jr. - DirectOscar Jimenez Jr.Georgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossOscar Jimenez Jr. - CrossOscar Jimenez Jr.Christopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 1)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralJury Sent Home — End-of-Day HousekeepingMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 6

May 25, 2022

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 2)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned112lines 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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordChristopher DeCosteMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - RedirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Resumed)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 7

May 26, 2022

ProceduralDefense Motion for Judgment of Acquittal Denied — All Three Counts Proceed to JuryMentioned

Summary

The court denied the defense motion for judgment of acquittal, allowing all three counts to go to the jury.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralDefense case opening logistics and ruling on Rodriguez impeachment recordingMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectSherry Bennett - DirectSherry BennettChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectMichael Dillmore - DirectMichael DillmoreChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Recalled by Defense)Craig IsomChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectJason Newlin - Direct (Continued)Jason NewlinChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossJason Newlin - CrossJason NewlinGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectRyan Fitzpatrick - DirectRyan FitzpatrickMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossRyan Fitzpatrick - CrossRyan FitzpatrickSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Fitzpatrick acknowledged limited personal knowledge of the Lexus transfer and said his account of the reported confrontation came from Charlie Adelson.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralScheduling set for Magbanua testimony; defense text-message exhibits admittedMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectKatherine Magbanua - DirectKatherine MagbanuaTara KawassMentioned

Summary

Magbanua denied arranging a killing or delivering money, explained communications and cash as unrelated to the murder, and described the Dolce Vita meeting as not involving talk of Dan Markel or a murder.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Charge ConferenceCharge ConferenceMentioned

Summary

The court finalized jury instructions, retaining lesser-included homicide offenses, revising principal-liability language, removing independent act, and setting deliberation procedures.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralSecond Motion for Judgment of Acquittal — DeniedMentioned

Summary

The court denied the defense's renewed judgment-of-acquittal motion, finding sufficient evidence on all three charges to send the case to the jury.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossKatherine Magbanua - CrossKatherine MagbanuaSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectKatherine Magbanua - RedirectKatherine MagbanuaTara KawassMentioned

Summary

Magbanua defended her interpretation of the Dolce Vita recording and text messages, maintained she would not falsely cooperate, and the court admitted Defense Exhibits 39 through 41.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 8

May 27, 2022

Jury InstructionJury Instructions (Final)Mentioned

Summary

The court instructed jurors on the charges, reasonable doubt, witness evaluation, deliberation rules, and verdict options before closing arguments.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ClosingClosing Argument - Tara KawassTara KawassMentioned

Summary

Kawass argued that the State's case rested on unreliable testimony and disputed inferences, then asked jurors to find Magbanua not guilty on all counts.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CACharlie AdelsonOct 26, 2023 – Nov 6, 2023

Garcia did not testify live, but his recorded voice was presented on Day 5, and witness testimony and counsel placed him within their competing accounts of the alleged conspiracy.

Day 1

Oct 26, 2023

OpeningOpening Statement - Sarah Kathryn DuganSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Dugan previewed the State's alleged murder-for-hire conspiracy theory, including anticipated phone, financial, surveillance, and recorded-call evidence.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

OpeningOpening Statement - Dan RashbaumDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Rashbaum previewed a defense theory that alleged payments reflected extortion, not a murder-for-hire arrangement.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectPatrick Sanford - DirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 2

Oct 27, 2023

CrossWendi Adelson - Cross (Part 2)Wendi AdelsonDan RashbaumMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossJeffrey Lacasse - CrossJeffrey LacasseDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Defense counsel challenged Jeffrey Lacasse's memory, the timing of his police report, his cordial text to Charlie Adelson, and the basis for his account of Wendi Adelson's distress.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman3highlightsMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (3)

testimony highlightRivera said Garcia brought him the job, that he and Garcia would travel to Tallahassee, and that Katie was to receive the money; he described the total payment as $100,000 split three ways.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

testimony highlightRivera testified that he drove the Prius into Markel's driveway and that Garcia got out and shot Markel twice.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“Garcia jumped out and shot him.”— Luis RiveraRivera gave a direct account of the shooting at Markel's driveway.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Day 3

Oct 30, 2023

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraDan Rashbaum2highlightsMentioned

Summary

Defense questioned Rivera's secondhand knowledge, lack of direct Adelson contact, payment account, and recollection of the alleged post-killing call.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (2)

confrontationRivera said he did not know whether the woman and children seen near the house were the person Sigfredo identified, while acknowledging that the woman looked at his car.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“I ain't going to do it. I'm going to get out the truck.”— Luis RiveraRivera described his response to Sigfredo's stated plan to run over the dentist.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

RedirectLuis Rivera - RedirectLuis RiveraGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectKatherine Magbanua - DirectKatherine MagbanuaGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossKatherine Magbanua - CrossKatherine MagbanuaDan RashbaumMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectKatherine Magbanua - RedirectKatherine MagbanuaGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectMary Hull - DirectMary HullSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Financial investigator Mary Hull presented admitted records and testimony about cash deposits, banking patterns, and Adelson Institute payments.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 4

Oct 31, 2023

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Defense cross-examined Corbitt on the limits and interpretation of phone and cell-site evidence; the court also limited use of unadmitted texts and allowed a defense chart only as a demonstrative.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossOscar Jimenez Jr. - CrossOscar Jimenez Jr.Dan RashbaumMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Recall)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 5

Nov 1, 2023

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Recall, Continued)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned134lines 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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossPatrick Sanford - Cross (Recall)Patrick SanfordDan RashbaumMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - Redirect (Recall)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 6

Nov 2, 2023

DirectCharlie Adelson - Direct (Part 1)Charlie AdelsonDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectCharlie Adelson - Direct (Part 2)Charlie AdelsonDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectCharlie Adelson - Direct (Part 3)Charlie AdelsonDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Charlie Adelson used recorded bump calls to explain his claimed extortion theory, deny code words, and describe conversations with Donna Adelson and Katherine Magbanua.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectCharlie Adelson - Direct (Part 5)Charlie AdelsonDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Charlie Adelson said he viewed the threatening calls and letter as a claimed extortion, not evidence of involvement in Dan Markel's murder.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 7

Nov 3, 2023

DirectCharlie Adelson - Direct (Continued)Charlie AdelsonDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Charlie Adelson said threatening contacts were a claimed extortion or police operation and again denied involvement in Dan Markel's murder.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossCharlie Adelson - CrossCharlie AdelsonGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectCharlie Adelson - RedirectCharlie AdelsonDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Charlie Adelson used redirect to explain his claimed extortion fears, monthly payments, and reluctance to contact police.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Charge ConferenceCharge Conference — Jury Instructions Finalized for All Three CountsMentioned

Summary

The court finalized jury instructions and verdict forms, waived lesser-included offenses, and overruled a defense objection to a separate intent instruction.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 8

Nov 6, 2023

Jury InstructionFinal Jury InstructionsMentioned

Summary

Jurors received final instructions on the three charges, reasonable doubt, credibility, deliberation, and separate unanimous verdicts.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ClosingClosing Argument - Dan RashbaumDan RashbaumMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DADonna AdelsonAug 22, 2025 – Sep 4, 2025

Garcia did not testify, but witness accounts and travel, vehicle, phone, and payment evidence placed him within the State's alleged intermediary-based conspiracy. The defense stressed the absence of direct evidence connecting Donna Adelson to him.

Day 1

Aug 22, 2025

OpeningOpening Statement - Sarah Kathryn DuganSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

The State previewed an alleged murder-for-hire conspiracy, connecting Donna Adelson to a custody-dispute motive, alleged intermediaries, records, recordings, and alleged post-crime conduct.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

OpeningOpening Statement - Jackie L. FulfordJackie L. FulfordMentioned

Summary

Fulford argued that the expected evidence would not prove Donna Adelson planned, solicited, or financed Markel's murder.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Continued)Craig IsomGeorgia Cappleman1highlightMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (1)

evidence eventIsom testified that the rental contract named Luis Rivera and included a phone number he associated with Sigfredo Garcia.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

The defense questioned Isom about unrequested investigative records, his limited review of Magbanua's employment records, and emails displayed as sent by Harvey Adelson.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia Cappleman3highlightsMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (3)

testimony highlightRivera described two trips to Tallahassee with Garcia, including a June trip during which they followed Markel and observed his residence and daycare.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

testimony highlightRivera testified that he drove the Prius to Markel's driveway and that Garcia got out and shot Markel twice.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“I pulled up right behind him, and Garcia jumped out and shot him.”— Luis RiveraRivera gave a firsthand account of the shooting at Markel's driveway.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraJackie L. FulfordMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 3

Aug 26, 2025

DirectMary Hull - DirectMary HullSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Forensic accountant Mary Hull detailed financial records involving cash deposits, Adelson Institute checks to Katherine Magbanua, and banking patterns following Dan Markel's murder.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectKatherine Magbanua - DirectKatherine MagbanuaGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossKatherine Magbanua - CrossKatherine MagbanuaJackie L. Fulford1highlightMentioned

Summary

Defense challenged Magbanua's prior lies and her account of payments, while she said she had no direct communications with Donna Adelson after a dental-office encounter.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (1)

Quote“Yes. I didn't know that he was going to be with him, let alone I didn't know that Sigfredo was even going to be the one.”— Katherine MagbanuaMagbanua said she did not know Luis Rivera would be involved or that Sigfredo Garcia would be the person acting.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

RedirectKatherine Magbanua - RedirectKatherine MagbanuaGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Cell-site analyst Christopher Corbitt explained the limits of phone-location analysis and presented certified phone records, tower-dump results, and family communications.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 4

Aug 27, 2025

DirectChristopher Corbitt - Direct (Continued)Christopher CorbittSarah Kathryn Dugan2highlightsMentioned

Summary

Cell-site analyst Christopher Corbitt traced phone, GPS, rental, and message records through the June and July 2014 trips and the aftermath of Dan Markel's killing.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (2)

testimony highlightCorbitt traced the July rental and travel records, the communications on the morning of July 18, and the later return of Garcia's handset to the network before a call to Magbanua.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“That phone never returns to service, never makes or receives an actual phone call from that morning of the 19th, through the duration of the records that we have.”— Christopher CorbittCorbitt described the endpoint of the available records for Garcia's handset after the July 18 events.Open in transcript →

CrossChristopher Corbitt - CrossChristopher CorbittJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

Corbitt agreed that cell-site records cannot precisely locate a handset and could not place Donna Adelson's handset at Charlie Adelson's residence; he also explained limits in call-count and travel-timing analysis.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossOscar Jimenez Jr. - CrossOscar Jimenez Jr.Jackie L. FulfordMentioned

Summary

Jimenez said the flyer, follow-up text, and calls were part of the undercover effort, but no $5,000 payment was made.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 1)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 5

Aug 28, 2025

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 2)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned132lines spoken

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 6

Aug 29, 2025

DirectChristopher Corbitt - Direct (Recall)Christopher CorbittSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Corbitt presented message and phone-record evidence concerning the extortion account, WhatsApp communications, and post-verdict Vietnam visa and travel-related records.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - Redirect (Recall)Christopher CorbittSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordJackie L. Fulford1highlightMentioned

Summary

Sanford acknowledged limits in the investigation's direct evidence, described wiretap monitoring and Donna Adelson's airport arrest, and agreed Magbanua had lied in earlier trials.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (1)

admissionAt the close of cross-examination, Sanford agreed investigators found no direct connection between Donna Adelson and Sigfredo Garcia, Luis Rivera, or Katherine Magbanua beyond the limited encounter described, and no direct statement by Donna Adelson that she wanted Dan Markel killed.Open in transcript →

Day 7

Sep 2, 2025

ProceduralDefense Motion for Judgment of Acquittal on Counts 1 and 3Mentioned

Summary

The court denied the defense request for judgment of acquittal on Counts 1 and 3 after hearing competing arguments over the sufficiency of the State's evidence.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 8

Sep 3, 2025

Charge ConferenceCharge Conference — Jury Instruction Settlement Before Closing ArgumentsMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 9

Sep 4, 2025

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia Cappleman (Resumed)Georgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ClosingClosing Argument - Jackie L. Fulford (Resumed)Jackie L. FulfordMentioned

Summary

Fulford argued that the undercover call, travel evidence, and circumstantial record did not prove Donna Adelson's involvement beyond a reasonable doubt.

Mentioned in this proceeding.