Witness

Wendi Adelson

Dan Markel's ex-wife, who testified as a state witness under immunity in all four Tallahassee murder-for-hire trials.

AppearedGarcia–Magbanua Magbanua Retrial Charlie Adelson Donna Adelson

3,322 lines·194 proceedings·165 mentions·4 trials

About

Her testimony provides a recurring first-hand account of the divorce, relocation dispute, family discussions, and her actions after the killing across four related trials.

Wendi Adelson testified as a State witness in the Garcia–Magbanua 2019 Joint Trial, the Magbanua retrial, the Charlie Adelson trial, and the Donna Adelson trial. She described her marriage and divorce from Dan Markel, the shared-custody arrangement for their children, and her unsuccessful effort to relocate with them to South Florida. Her testimony addressed family discussions about the relocation dispute, including a proposed payment intended to obtain Markel’s agreement to move while maintaining parenting time. She described Charles Adelson as a close and protective brother, discussed his television-and-hitman remark as a joke, and described her limited acquaintance with Katherine Magbanua. Across the trials, she recounted encountering a roadblock or police tape near Trescott on the day of the killing, her later contact with law enforcement, and denied knowing of or participating in a plan to kill Markel. Cross-examination explored the relocation litigation, family relationships and communications, her local and travel plans, her relationship with Jeffrey Lacasse, and her recollection of events and recorded statements.

Trial Record (194)

GMGarcia–MagbanuaSep 26, 2019 – Oct 11, 2019Called by prosecution

On Day 2, Wendi Adelson testified under use immunity about the divorce and custody dispute, her unsuccessful relocation effort, her movements on the day of the murder, and her denial of knowing about or participating in a plot to kill Dan Markel.

Day 1

Sep 26, 2019

OpeningOpening Statement - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

OpeningOpening Statement - Saam ZangenehSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectMarcia Rodriguez - DirectMarcia RodriguezAnna NorrisMentioned

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.

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.

CrossCraig Isom - CrossCraig IsomChristopher DeCosteMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralWendi Adelson Immunity and Cross-Examination TimingWendi AdelsonMentioned1line spoken

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman1highlight233lines 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.

Highlights (1)

Quote“After -- after Danny died, I was terrified that someone was going to come after me or my children and harm us as well.”— Wendi AdelsonAdelson described her stated fear after Markel's death while rejecting the characterization of a later dinner as a celebration.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

CrossWendi Adelson - CrossWendi AdelsonSaam Zangeneh47lines spoken

Summary

Garcia's counsel explored Wendi Adelson's knowledge of Charlie's lifestyle and alleged drug-related contacts; she often said she did not know.

CrossWendi Adelson - CrossWendi AdelsonTara Kawass1highlight170lines 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.

Highlights (1)

Quote“well, he tends to repeat himself so he kept repeating that joke because he thought it was funny.”— Wendi AdelsonAdelson characterized Charlie's prior hitman-and-television remark as a repeated joke.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman12lines spoken

Summary

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

Jury QuestionsWendi Adelson - Juror QuestionsWendi AdelsonJames C. Hankinson1highlight5lines 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.

Highlights (1)

Quote“more than five years have passed since Danny died, and a lot of the things that we're talking about today I just don't remember at all.”— Wendi AdelsonExplains Adelson's stated reason for having her memory refreshed with documents before testifying.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Jury QuestionsWendi Adelson - Juror Question Follow-up by the StateWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

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

Jury QuestionsWendi Adelson - Juror Question Follow-up by MagbanuaWendi AdelsonTara Kawass1line spoken

Summary

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

Day 3

Oct 1, 2019

ProceduralRivera-Attorney Privilege and Brannon Sequestration IssuesMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossBill Brannon - CrossBill BrannonSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

Brannon described limited vehicle documentation at the perimeter and said he reported, but did not stop, a vehicle matching a description he had received.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossBill Brannon - CrossBill BrannonChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectBill Brannon - RedirectBill BrannonGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Jury QuestionsBill Brannon - Juror QuestionsBill BrannonJames C. HankinsonMentioned

Summary

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

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.

CrossJeffrey Lacasse - CrossJeffrey LacasseSaam ZangenehMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossJeffrey Lacasse - CrossJeffrey LacasseChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectJeffrey Lacasse - RedirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Jury QuestionsJeffrey Lacasse - Juror QuestionsJeffrey LacasseJames C. HankinsonMentioned

Summary

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

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 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.

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.

Day 4

Oct 2, 2019

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.

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.

Jury QuestionsLuis Rivera - Juror QuestionsLuis RiveraJames C. HankinsonMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 5

Oct 3, 2019

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 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.

DirectClariza Lebredo - DirectClariza LebredoAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 6

Oct 4, 2019

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.

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.

RedirectChristopher Corbitt - RedirectChristopher CorbittAnna NorrisMentioned

Summary

Corbitt described judicial oversight and prospective limits of wiretap monitoring.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 8

Oct 8, 2019

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Recall)Craig IsomGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectChristopher Corbitt - DirectChristopher CorbittChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

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 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.

ProceduralFinal Jury-Instruction ConferenceMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 10

Oct 10, 2019

ClosingClosing Argument - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

ClosingClosing Argument - Christopher DeCosteChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

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.

KMMagbanua RetrialMay 18, 2022 – May 27, 2022Called by prosecution

On Day 2, Wendi Adelson testified about the divorce and relocation dispute, family discussions of a proposed payment, and her movements on the day of the killing, while denying involvement in or prior knowledge of a plan to kill Dan Markel.

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 KawassMentioned

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.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectCraig Isom - DirectCraig IsomGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

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.

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

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 2

May 19, 2022

ProceduralWendi Adelson — Fifth Amendment motion and subpoena rulingWendi Adelson2highlightsMentioned

Summary

The court required Wendi Adelson to testify only under the State subpoena and limited cross-examination to the State's direct examination.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (2)

rulingThe court ruled that Adelson must testify under the State subpoena, limited cross-examination to matters raised on direct examination, and barred calling her in the defense case because she would invoke the Fifth Amendment.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“The cross-examination will be limited to whatever the State brings forth on direct; so that's what the cross-examination scope will be limited to.”— Robert R. WheelerThe court defined the permissible scope of questioning if Wendi Adelson testifies for the State.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

DirectMarcia Rodriguez - DirectMarcia RodriguezGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman4highlights474lines spoken

Summary

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

Highlights (4)

testimony highlightWendi Adelson testified that relocation was her mother's most important nonnegotiable divorce term and that her family discussed offering up to $1 million to obtain permission for the move.Open in transcript →

Quote“I did say I thought someone might have done this on my behalf, yes.”— Wendi AdelsonWendi Adelson acknowledged an earlier statement that someone could have acted on her behalf.Open in transcript →

testimony highlightWendi Adelson described leaving home around noon, encountering a roadblock on Trescott, and turning around because she assumed it was related to weather or a fallen tree.Open in transcript →

Quote“I figured it was just an electrical storm or something. There was some tape and it looked like the road was blocked off, and so I just turned around and went back and went up Betton.”— Wendi AdelsonWendi Adelson described her reaction to encountering the roadblock near the crime scene.Open in transcript →

sidebarHearsay Documents and MotiveDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct

Summary

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

CrossWendi Adelson - CrossWendi AdelsonChristopher DeCoste2highlights229lines spoken

Summary

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

Highlights (2)

testimony highlightWendi Adelson acknowledged discussing her unhappy marriage with Charles Adelson but denied knowing that he had arranged the killing or confronting him about it.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“I can't speak to the eyes of the world. I can only know that I have done nothing wrong.”— Wendi AdelsonWendi Adelson rejected counsel's assertion that she remained suspect unless she implicated her brother.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman2highlights27lines spoken

Summary

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

Highlights (2)

testimony highlightAdelson said the email's concern was that the children be under good care, while maintaining they were always well cared for with her.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

Quote“Correct, because I've done nothing wrong, and I believe in our justice system.”— Wendi AdelsonAdelson directly answered the prosecutor's question about whether she could be arrested.Open in transcript →Watch this moment ▶

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossJeffrey Lacasse - CrossJeffrey LacasseTara KawassMentioned

Summary

Lacasse was questioned about wendi Adelson, his meeting with Charles Adelson and Katherine Magbanua, and his early police interviews after Dan Markel's murder.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectJeffrey Lacasse - RedirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

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.

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 DeCosteMentioned

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.

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.

Day 4

May 23, 2022

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.

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.

CrossJune Umchinda - CrossJune UmchindaTara KawassMentioned

Summary

June Umchinda said she had limited knowledge of Charles Adelson's connection to Katherine Magbanua or the homicide investigation, as the defense explored media exposure and her 2018 interview.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossClariza Lebredo - CrossClariza LebredoTara KawassMentioned

Summary

Lebredo said she lacked knowledge of the Adelsons' check-writing practices and any arrangement involving Magbanua's paychecks.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 5

May 24, 2022

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.

Day 6

May 25, 2022

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.

Day 7

May 26, 2022

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.

RedirectCraig Isom - RedirectCraig IsomChristopher DeCosteMentioned

Summary

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

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.

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.

Day 8

May 27, 2022

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.

CACharlie AdelsonOct 26, 2023 – Nov 6, 2023Called by prosecution

Called by the State, Wendi Adelson testified about the divorce and relocation dispute, family discussions, the television-related hitman joke, and her actions after the shooting. She denied involvement or advance knowledge and later denied statements attributed to her by Jeffrey Lacasse.

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.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossJoanne Maltese - CrossJoanne MalteseDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Maltese explained the basis for a vehicle photograph and read an ABC receipt time of 12:49 and 13 seconds.

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.

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectPatrick Sanford - RedirectPatrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralWendi Adelson Immunity Statement and Rule of Sequestration InvokedMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman518lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarImproper Comment ObjectionDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct

Summary

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

sidebarRequest for Email Exhibit CopyDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct

Summary

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

sidebarExamination Timing and Overnight Recess

Summary

Counsel discussed the expected length of the examination and how to avoid interrupting the witness's testimony in a way that could affect jury retention.

CrossWendi Adelson - Cross (Part 1)Wendi AdelsonDan RashbaumMentioned135lines spoken

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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

Summary

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

Day 2

Oct 27, 2023

CrossWendi Adelson - Cross (Part 2)Wendi AdelsonDan Rashbaum262lines spoken

Summary

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

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman102lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectBill Brannon - DirectBill BrannonGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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

Summary

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

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.

DirectStephen Webster - DirectStephen WebsterGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectJune Umchinda - DirectJune UmchindaGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectRyan Fitzpatrick - DirectRyan FitzpatrickGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectLuis Rivera - DirectLuis RiveraGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

DirectWendi Adelson - Direct (Recall)Wendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman6lines spoken

Summary

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

CrossWendi Adelson - CrossWendi AdelsonDan Rashbaum10lines spoken

Summary

Wendi Adelson said Jane McPherson raised Jeffrey Lacasse's name with police and denied trying to frame him.

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman4lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - Direct (Recall)Jeffrey LacasseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossJeffrey Lacasse - CrossJeffrey LacasseDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Defense challenged the timing and reliability of Jeffrey Lacasse's reported statements; Lacasse maintained his account and explained his delayed police report.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectJeffrey Lacasse - RedirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 3

Oct 30, 2023

CrossLuis Rivera - CrossLuis RiveraDan RashbaumMentioned

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.

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.

DirectCorey Hale - DirectCorey HaleGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossCorey Hale - CrossCorey HaleDan RashbaumMentioned

Summary

Defense questioned Hale about the timing, sources, and investigation of Professor Lacasse's account of the dinner.

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.

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 CapplemanMentioned

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.

DirectKristin Adamson - DirectKristin AdamsonKathryn MeyersMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossKristin Adamson - CrossKristin AdamsonGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectKristin Adamson - RedirectKristin AdamsonKathryn MeyersMentioned

Summary

Adamson denied any asset-disclosure failure and described providing records for a disputed retirement account.

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.

ProceduralArguments Outside the Presence of the Jury — Harvey–Charlie Phone Call Hearsay RulingMentioned

Summary

The court sustained a hearsay objection to a recorded family phone call and limited Charlie Adelson to testimony from his own recollection.

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

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.

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

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, 2025Called by prosecution

Called by the State on Day 2, Wendi Adelson testified about the divorce and failed relocation effort, family discussions, her movements on the morning of the shooting, and her denial of knowledge of a plan to kill Dan Markel. Cross-examination examined the relocation dispute, family support, and communications concerning Markel.

Day 1

Aug 22, 2025

Jury InstructionPreliminary Jury Instructions — Charges, Trial Procedure, and Juror ConductMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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.

DirectJames Geiger - DirectJames GeigerGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectJoanne Maltese - DirectJoanne MalteseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralOJP — Contested Admissibility of Composite Email Exhibit 64Mentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectCraig Isom - DirectCraig IsomGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralOJP — Foundation Objection to Exhibit 64-AA (Shared Email Address)Mentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectCraig Isom - Direct (Continued)Craig IsomGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

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.

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 CapplemanMentioned

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.

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 2

Aug 25, 2025

ProceduralDay 2 Opening — Gallery Rules, Exhibit Stipulation, and Hearing Device ConfirmedMentioned

Summary

The court set argument procedures and addressed one remaining exhibit-related pleading for an out-of-jury proffer.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectJason Newlin - DirectJason NewlinGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossJason Newlin - CrossJason NewlinJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

Newlin acknowledged uncertainty about who sent a shared-email message and recalled wendi rejecting a proposed arrangement.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

ProceduralWendi Adelson Immunity Statement — John LauroMentioned

Summary

The court confirmed the scope of Wendi Adelson's subpoena immunity and set a procedure for any Fifth Amendment invocation during a later defense proffer.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectWendi Adelson - DirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman612lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarLunch Break TimingDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct

Summary

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

sidebarChildren's Surname DocumentsDuring Wendi Adelson - Direct

Summary

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

CrossWendi Adelson - CrossWendi AdelsonJackie L. Fulford417lines spoken

Summary

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

sidebarReview of Prior TestimonyDuring Wendi Adelson - Cross

Summary

Counsel sought to locate prior testimony for possible use after the witness did not recall making the statement.

sidebarTranscript Excerpt as DemonstrativeDuring Wendi Adelson - Cross

Summary

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

sidebarRobert Adelson Testimony LimitsDuring Wendi Adelson - Cross

Summary

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

RedirectWendi Adelson - RedirectWendi AdelsonGeorgia Cappleman51lines spoken

Summary

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

DirectRobert Adelson - DirectRobert AdelsonSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 3

Aug 26, 2025

DirectJeffrey Lacasse - DirectJeffrey LacasseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossJeffrey Lacasse - CrossJeffrey LacasseJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

Lacasse acknowledged that his information about Donna Adelson's reaction came through wendi, while confirming his account of a statement concerning Charlie.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectJune Umchinda - DirectJune UmchindaGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

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.

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 DuganMentioned

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.

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.

CrossJames Keith McElveen - CrossJames Keith McElveenJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

McElveen said recent restaurant-footage work did not add an enhancement and that he had not reviewed audio from Wendi Adelson's July 18, 2014 interview.

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 CapplemanMentioned

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

DirectPatrick Sanford - Direct (Part 3)Patrick SanfordGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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.

CrossPatrick Sanford - CrossPatrick SanfordJackie L. FulfordMentioned

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.

Day 7

Sep 2, 2025

sidebarCoconspirator Statements AdmissibilityMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

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.

DirectAnn Elizabeth Cunningham - DirectAnn Elizabeth CunninghamJackie L. FulfordMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossAnn Elizabeth Cunningham - CrossAnn Elizabeth CunninghamGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossRon Gutterson - CrossRon GuttersonGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectRichard Shagran - DirectRichard ShagranJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

A longtime friend described the Adelsons' distress after Charlie's conviction and said he helped explain their November 2023 travel planning.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectTim Kelly - DirectTim KellyJackie L. FulfordMentioned

Summary

Realtor Tim Kelly described a 2011 Tallahassee home search for Donna and Harvey Adelson and said prior courtroom testimony did not affect his account.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossTim Kelly - CrossTim KellySarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Kelly confirmed the 2011 timing of a home search for Donna and Harvey Adelson.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Day 8

Sep 3, 2025

DirectKristin Adamson - DirectKristin AdamsonJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

Former family-law counsel described Wendi Adelson’s unsuccessful relocation request, the later settlement and enforcement dispute, and said Donna Adelson was not involved in her representation.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossKristin Adamson - CrossKristin AdamsonSarah Kathryn DuganMentioned

Summary

Adamson said she had no knowledge of Donna Adelson drafting or editing Wendi Adelson's filings and described the relocation dispute and later enforcement litigation with Dan Markel.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RedirectKristin Adamson - RedirectKristin AdamsonJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

Adamson said she withdrew because she would be a witness and remained responsible for the pleadings she filed.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

profferLinda Bailey - Defense Proffer ExaminationLinda BaileyJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

Bailey outlined a proposed family-law expert opinion and said Adamson's testimony did not change it.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectLinda Bailey - DirectLinda BaileyJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossLinda Bailey - CrossLinda BaileyGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

DirectSara Newhouse - DirectSara NewhouseJoshua D. ZelmanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

CrossSara Newhouse - CrossSara NewhouseGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

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. FulfordJackie L. FulfordMentioned1line spoken

Summary

Fulford urged jurors to find that the State's case against Donna Adelson relied on disputed inferences, not proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia CapplemanGeorgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.

RebuttalRebuttal Closing - Georgia Cappleman (Resumed)Georgia CapplemanMentioned

Summary

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

Mentioned in this proceeding.