Evil Of the Adelson's | The Case Against Donna Adelson

By: Hidden Killers Podcast
Listen for free

  • Summary

  • Evil Of the Adelsons: The Case Against Donna Adelson" is a compelling podcast that delves into the 2014 murder of Florida law professor Dan Markel, a case that highlights the extreme measures taken in family disputes. Centered around the Adelson family, the series focuses on Donna Adelson, implicated alongside her son, Charlie Adelson, the convicted mastermind behind the murder. The podcast explores the intricate dynamics within the Adelson family, including Charlie's life sentence for first-degree murder and Donna's arrest on similar charges, suggesting her significant involvement in the plot. It also touches on Harvey Adelson's uncharged but suspected role in financing the murder. The series meticulously examines the motives, believed to stem from a custody battle and financial disagreements, and the evidence comprising cell phone records, financial transactions, and witness testimonies. As the story unfolds, listeners are taken through a journey of betrayal, legal battles, and the blurred lines between familial loyalty and moral transgression, offering an in-depth look at a family ensnared in a web of criminal allegations.
    Real Story Media
    Show More Show Less
True Crime Politics & Government
Show More Show Less
activate_samplebutton_t1
Episodes
  • Conflict of Interest Pauses Jury Selection in Donna Adelson's Murder Trial

    Conflict of Interest Pauses Jury Selection in Donna Adelson's Murder Trial
    Sep 18 2024
    Jury selection for Donna Adelson's conspiracy and murder trial, which has drawn significant public attention, was halted when potential conflicts of interest involving her defense attorney were raised. The proceedings began with 100 potential jurors summoned to the Leon County Courthouse, but Judge Stephen Everett called for a recess to address these serious legal concerns. At the heart of the issue is attorney Daniel Rashbaum, who represents both Donna Adelson and her son, Charlie Adelson. Charlie has already been convicted in a related murder-for-hire case and is currently serving a life sentence. His involvement as a state witness in Donna’s trial complicates the defense strategy, as questions arise regarding the potential for biased representation. On the eve of jury selection, Charlie Adelson’s appellate attorneys filed a notice asserting that he was invoking his Sixth Amendment right to maintain the confidentiality of his prior communications with Rashbaum. They contend that Rashbaum should not be allowed to cross-examine Charlie, and neither should his co-counsel, Alex Morris. “Mr. Adelson would assert that his privilege, and the conflict of interest, applies to the entire defense team in Mrs. Adelson’s case, and Mr. Adelson should not be subject to cross-examination by any member of the defense team who has been tainted by Mr. Rashbaum’s knowledge and information,” said Charlie's appellate lawyers, Michael Ufferman and Laurel Cornell Niles. During the recess, Donna Adelson consulted with Adam Komisar, an independent attorney, about her options. Upon returning to court, she expressed her desire to retain Rashbaum and waived any claims regarding potential conflicts of interest. Komisar informed the judge, “She is in a position where she would not like to lose Mr. Rashbaum and is willing to give any waivers.” However, this waiver raises questions about the effectiveness of Komisar's potential cross-examination of Charlie if he is called as a witness. Komisar acknowledged that while he could not provide the same level of representation as Rashbaum, Donna preferred to move forward without delaying the trial. Judge Everett posed direct questions to Donna, ensuring she understood the implications of waiving her conflict claims. She affirmed her decision, and the judge stated he would take time to determine if her waiver was "legally sufficient." The complexities of this case extend beyond mere legal technicalities. Donna Adelson, aged 74, is the fifth defendant to face prosecution in the infamous case surrounding the murder of law professor Dan Markel in 2014. Prosecutors allege that the Adelson family sought to eliminate Markel to enable his ex-wife, Wendi Adelson, to relocate to Miami with their two sons. Wendi, Donna's daughter, is a key figure in this case, as her ties to both defendants heighten the stakes involved. Alongside Assistant State Attorneys Georgia Cappleman and Sarah Kathryn Dugan, Judge Everett is tasked with navigating these intricate legal waters. As the courtroom proceedings continued, Alex Morris emphasized to the judge that he had been "walled off" from evidence related to Charlie Adelson’s case. Despite the ongoing complexities, Morris asserted that he was prepared to handle any cross-examination should Charlie testify. Assistant State Attorney Cappleman noted that while Charlie may not be called as a primary witness, the situation remains fluid and could change. Judge Everett reinforced the importance of effective representation, stating, “Your client has a right to effective representation at every single critical stage.” With about 900 potential jurors summoned for the trial, the upcoming days are critical in shaping the proceedings as Donna Adelson's fate hangs in the balance. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    Show More Show Less
    12 mins
  • Adelson Matriarch Murder Trial — FL v. Donna Adelson — JURY SELECTION | DAY 1 TRIAL DELAYED

    Adelson Matriarch Murder Trial — FL v. Donna Adelson — JURY SELECTION | DAY 1 TRIAL DELAYED
    Sep 18 2024
    Donna Adelson, who is facing charges in a murder-for-hire plot that led to the death of her former son-in-law, Dan Markel, is making key legal moves just weeks before her trial is set to begin. Adelson, 74, appeared in court as her defense team presented several motions designed to ensure a fair trial, which WAS scheduled to start on September 17.
    Markel, a Florida State University law professor, was fatally shot in his driveway in 2014. Prosecutors allege that Donna Adelson orchestrated the murder to facilitate the relocation of her daughter, Wendi Adelson, and her two young grandsons from Tallahassee to Miami amid a contentious custody battle following Wendi’s divorce from Markel. Donna is the fourth individual to face trial in connection with Markel's murder, following the convictions of her son, Charlie Adelson, Charlie's ex-girlfriend Katherine Magbanua, and hitmen Sigfredo Garcia and Luis Rivera.
    Recent court filings reveal that Adelson’s defense team has submitted a motion in limine to exclude specific evidence and arguments from her trial. One key request is to prevent testimony from Tallahassee Police Investigator Craig Isom, who previously testified that he asked Donna and her husband, Harvey, to submit to a police interview at Markel’s memorial service—a request they declined. The defense argues that presenting this testimony in Donna’s trial would unfairly use her pre-arrest silence against her, potentially prejudicing the jury if she decides to testify.
    Another significant motion seeks to exclude details about the Adelson family’s finances. Donna’s attorneys argue that evidence concerning the family's wealth, including assets from their now-closed dental practice, the Adelson Institute, and Charlie’s financial dealings, is irrelevant to the charges against Donna and could bias the jury. They claim that any funds paid to Magbanua following Markel’s murder came from Charlie’s money and that financial information about the Adelson Institute would not impact Donna’s culpability.
    As the trial date approaches, all eyes are on the court’s decisions regarding these motions, which could significantly impact the trial’s proceedings and outcome.
    #DonnaAdelson #DanMarkel #MurderForHire #LegalDefense #CourtroomStrategy #JurySelection #CriminalTrial
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    Show More Show Less
    37 mins
  • Who's Going To Be Charged Next In The Adelson Family After Donna's Trial? -WEEK IN REVIEW

    Who's Going To Be Charged Next In The Adelson Family After Donna's Trial? -WEEK IN REVIEW
    Sep 14 2024
    Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

    This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

    Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

    Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    Show More Show Less
    8 mins

What listeners say about Evil Of the Adelson's | The Case Against Donna Adelson

Average Customer Ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

Audible.com.au reviews

Amazon Reviews
No Reviews are Available
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.