Florida Dentist's Mother Arrested in Murder-for-Hire of Dan Markel: Allegedly Plans Escape to Vietnam

Florida Dentist Charlie Adelson’s Mom Donna Sue Adelso Murder-for-Hire Dan Markel

By E.Baloyo , Parent Herald Nov 14, 10:06 pm

Photo: (Photo : Joe Raedle / Getty Images)

In a startling development of a murder-for-hire plot, Donna Sue Adelson, aged 73, the mother of a Florida dentist, Charlie Adelson, convicted in connection to the death of Dan Markel, a Florida State University law professor, was apprehended on Monday night.

The arrest not only highlights the family's alleged involvement in the murder but also reveals an alleged escape plan to Vietnam, a country without a U.S. extradition treaty.

The arrest unveils the complexities of the murder-for-hire scheme. The unfolding saga began with court and jail records revealing that Donna Sue Adelson is currently held in a Miami jail on suspicion of murder and other crimes, linked to the murder-for-hire plot that led to the recent conviction of her son, Charlie Adelson.

Authorities acted swiftly upon discovering that Donna and her husband had booked airline tickets to Vietnam, suggesting a calculated attempt to evade legal consequences.

Recorded Calls Expose Escape Plans and Financial Resources

Crucial evidence in the case emerged from recorded phone calls to Charlie Adelson's jail, where Donna Adelson divulged her intention to leave the country. The calls unveiled detailed plans to create trusts, ensure the financial security of her grandchildren, and even contemplated suicide.

The arrest warrant underscored Donna's substantial financial resources, implying a level of capability to execute escape plans successfully.

In addition to the first-degree murder charge, Donna Adelson faces accusations of solicitation and conspiracy.

These additional charges paint a complex picture of the murder-for-hire plot, extending beyond Charlie Adelson's involvement. Katherine Magbanua, an ex-girlfriend of Charlie, was also implicated and convicted of first-degree murder in the slaying last year.

Family Ties and Legal Consequences

The roots of the murder-for-hire scheme trace back to a dispute between Dan Markel and his ex-wife, Wendi Adelson, Donna's daughter.

Following their divorce, Wendi sought to relocate with the children from Tallahassee to South Florida. This decision sparked repeated attempts by Donna Adelson to coerce Wendi into influencing Markel's decision.

Donna proposed a monetary incentive of $1 million and suggested threats related to the religious upbringing of Markel's children. The arrest of Donna and her husband at Miami International Airport introduced another layer of complexity to the case.

While Donna is currently in custody, her husband was not arrested, leaving questions about his potential role in the alleged escape plan.

The legal proceedings have cast a spotlight on the intricate web of familial ties, implicating not only Charlie Adelson but also underscoring the broader family dynamics involved in the murder-for-hire plot.

Vietnam Escape Plan Adds Complexity to the Story

The choice of Vietnam as a destination for an alleged escape plan adds a layer of intrigue and complexity to the unfolding narrative.

The fact that Vietnam lacks a U.S. extradition treaty suggests a determined effort by Donna Adelson and her husband to avoid the legal consequences of their alleged involvement in Dan Markel's killing.

This strategic choice adds a geopolitical dimension to the story, emphasizing the lengths to which individuals might go to evade justice.

As the investigation continues to unfold, the story captivates public attention, offering a profound exploration into the dark complexities of familial ties and the shocking details surrounding the murder-for-hire of Dan Markel in the heart of Florida.