South Florida Matriarch Donna Adelson Sentenced to Life Over Ex-Son-in-Law’s Murder
Donna Adelson, the dame of a prominent South Florida family, has been handed a life sentence for her involvement in the 2014 payoff of her former son-in-law, Daniel Markel.
The ruling came on Monday after a lengthy trial in Tallahassee, Florida, where Adelson was set up shamefaced of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation.
The case has gripped Florida for nearly a decade, drawing attention for its blend of family drama, legal battles, and the woeful death of a well-known academic.
Daniel Markel, a distinguished law professor at Florida State University, was shot at his home during a heated guardianship disagreement with his ex-wife, Wendi Adelson, Donna’s son.
The July 2014 murder shocked the community and became a high-profile case, incompletely due to the fat and influential family at its center.
Donna Adelson tells the court at sentencing, “where’s the evidence?”
Judge Everette tries to stop her from continuing on by assuring her this will affect her sentencing and Donna continues on! ♀️
Judge I just don’t think she trust your sentencing at this point!#DonnaAdelson pic.twitter.com/TL8Ikj4789
— JC (@lovexistwithin) October 14, 2025
Adelson, 75, faced violent scrutiny throughout the trial. Last month, a jury found her shamefaced for orchestrating the murder.
On Monday, she entered a life judgment without the possibility of parole for the murder conviction. She was also handed a successive 30- time judgment for conspiracy and supplication.
During the sentencing, Adelson spoke out. “What happened to Danny is unforgivable. But I am an innocent woman convicted of this terrible crime without evidence.”
Judge Stephen Everett, presiding over the trial, described the case as having “substantial evidence” against Adelson. He noted her “utter lack of remorse” when addressing the court, underscoring the gravity of her actions.
Donna Adelson is the fifth person to face sentencing in connection with the murder. Her son, Charles Adelson, is also serving a life term. Wendi Adelson, however, has consistently denied involvement and has not been charged.
The saga has kept Florida residents captivated. Wealth, family tension, and tragedy have made this a case that continues to dominate headlines. As Donna Adelson prepares to appeal her conviction, the story shows no signs of fading from public view.
