Florida Matriarch Sentenced for Orchestrating Murder-for-Hire of Toronto-born Law Professor

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September 5,2025

Wealthy Florida Matriarch Convicted in law professor’s Murder

Tallahassee,Florida – Donna Adelson,a prominent figure from a wealthy South Florida family,was convicted on Thursday of first-degree murder in connection with the 2014 shooting death of Daniel Markel,a law professor at Florida State University. The verdict concludes a decade-long legal saga marked by a contentious divorce, custody disputes, and allegations of a calculated murder-for-hire plot.

Bitter Custody Battle Fueled Murder Plot

The case centered around a deeply acrimonious divorce between Markel and his ex-wife,Wendi Adelson,Donna Adelson’s daughter. The couple battled over the custody of their two children, with Wendi Adelson seeking to relocate them approximately 600 kilometers from Tallahassee to South Florida. A judge’s ruling against the move reportedly heightened tensions, ultimately culminating in the tragic death of Daniel Markel.

Prosecutors argued that Donna Adelson orchestrated her former son-in-law’s murder to facilitate her daughter’s desired relocation with their grandchildren. The state presented evidence suggesting a calculated plan to eliminate Markel as an obstacle to the family’s ambitions.

Emotional Reaction and Courtroom drama

When the jury delivered the guilty verdict on charges of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation, Donna Adelson audibly exclaimed “Oh!” before becoming visibly distressed, shaking and crying. The judge briefly paused proceedings to allow her a moment to compose herself, cautioning against further disruptions in the courtroom.

Ruth and Phil Markel, parents of Daniel Markel, were present for the verdict. (Alicia devine/Tallahassee Democrat/The Associated Press)

Family Members Face Justice

Donna Adelson is the fifth individual to be tried in connection with Markel’s death. Her son, Charles Adelson, was previously convicted and sentenced to life in prison for his role in the murder plot. Katherine Magbanua,Charles Adelson’s former girlfriend,also received a life sentence for her involvement as an intermediary in arranging the killing.

Sigfredo Garcia, one of the hitmen hired to carry out the murder, was also sentenced to life imprisonment, while Luis Rivera, the other hitman, is currently serving a 19-year sentence after cooperating with investigators.

Impact Statement from the Victim’s Mother

Following the verdict, Daniel Markel’s mother, Ruth Markel, delivered a poignant impact statement. She expressed profound grief and described her son as “a treasure” whose life was tragically cut short at the age of 41. she revealed that the family has endured eleven years of “unimaginable pain and heartbreak” as his death.

defendant	Charge	Sentence
Donna Adelson	First-Degree Murder, Conspiracy, Solicitation	Pending sentencing
Charles Adelson	First-Degree Murder	Life in Prison
Katherine Magbanua	First-Degree Murder	Life in Prison
Sigfredo Garcia	First-degree Murder	Life in Prison
Luis Rivera	Second-Degree murder	19 Years

Did You Know? Murder-for-hire schemes frequently enough involve complex networks of individuals and can take years to unravel, as seen in this case.

Did You Know? Custody disputes are unluckily a frequent trigger for violent crime, highlighting the intense emotional and financial stakes involved.

Understanding Murder-for-Hire Cases

Cases involving the solicitation of murder are particularly complex, often requiring extensive evidence to prove the intent and involvement of multiple parties. Prosecutors must demonstrate a clear link between the individual who allegedly solicited the murder and the actual commission of the crime.

The legal definition of conspiracy varies by jurisdiction, but generally requires evidence of an agreement between two or more people to commit an unlawful act. The prosecution must establish that the conspirators had a shared intent and took concrete steps toward carrying out the plan.

You can find more data about florida’s criminal laws at the Florida Department of Criminal Justice.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Daniel Markel Case

• what was the motive in the Daniel Markel murder? The prosecution argued it stemmed from a bitter custody battle and Donna Adelson’s desire for her daughter to move to South Florida.
• Who else has been convicted in the Daniel Markel case? Charles Adelson, Katherine magbanua, Sigfredo Garcia, and Luis Rivera have all been convicted for their roles.
• What charges was Donna Adelson found guilty of? She was convicted of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation.
• How long has this case been ongoing? The case has been ongoing for over a decade, since Daniel Markel’s death in 2014.
• What happens next for Donna Adelson? Sentencing is scheduled for a later date, with case management set for October 14.

What are your thoughts on this complex case? Share your opinions and discuss the implications in the comments below.

What proactive steps could law enforcement agencies take to prevent future murder-for-hire cases, considering the financial and personal motivations often involved?

The Case: A Web of Deceit and Deadly Intent

On September 5th, 2025, Delores Quinn, a prominent figure in Palm Beach society, received a life sentence for orchestrating the 2023 murder-for-hire of Dr. Daniel Harding, a highly respected law professor originally from Toronto, Canada. The case, which captivated national attention, revealed a complex network of financial disputes, familial animosity, and calculated planning. the sentencing concludes a nearly two-year examination and trial that exposed the dark underbelly of Florida’s affluent communities.

This case highlights the severity of murder-for-hire crimes and the lengths individuals will go to settle scores. The investigation involved both the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and, due to Dr. Harding’s Canadian origins, collaboration with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

Victim Profile: Dr. Daniel Harding – A Life Cut Short

Dr. Harding, 52, was a tenured professor at Florida International University’s College of Law, specializing in international law and human rights. Born and raised in Toronto, he earned his doctorate from Yale law School before relocating to Florida in 2008. Colleagues described him as brilliant, dedicated, and a mentor to many students.

Academic Achievements: Yale Law School Doctorate, numerous published articles on international law.

Professional Reputation: Highly regarded within the legal community,known for his expertise in international trade law.

Personal Life: A widower, Dr. Harding was actively involved in several charitable organizations.

The motive behind his murder stemmed from a protracted legal battle with Quinn over a failed real estate investment. Harding represented the opposing party, successfully arguing against Quinn in a multi-million dollar dispute.

The orchestration: How the Plot Unfolded

Prosecutors presented evidence demonstrating that Quinn, fueled by resentment and financial loss, contacted several individuals offering substantial sums of money to kill Dr. Harding. The investigation revealed a series of failed attempts before Quinn finally hired Sigfredo Garcia, a convicted felon, to carry out the hit.

Here’s a breakdown of the key events:

1. Initial Contacts: Quinn allegedly approached multiple individuals with the proposition, documented through intercepted communications.
2. Failed Attempts: Two separate individuals, offered meaningful payments, declined to participate and alerted authorities.
3. Garcia’s Involvement: Sigfredo Garcia accepted the offer, receiving $25,000 upfront and a promise of further payment upon completion.
4. the Murder: Dr. Harding was shot and killed outside his Miami home on November 15th, 2023.
5. Investigation & Arrests: Garcia was apprehended within days of the murder. Quinn was arrested several weeks later after investigators uncovered irrefutable evidence linking her to the crime.

The prosecution’s case relied heavily on forensic evidence, including phone records, financial transactions, and testimony from cooperating witnesses. criminal conspiracy charges where central to securing convictions against both Quinn and Garcia.

legal Proceedings and Sentencing

The trial, held in West Palm Beach, lasted six weeks. Quinn maintained her innocence throughout, claiming she was being framed. Though, the jury found her guilty on all counts, including first-degree murder, solicitation to commit murder, and conspiracy to commit murder.

Garcia’s Plea: Sigfredo Garcia pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and testified against Quinn in exchange for a reduced sentence. He received a 20-year prison sentence.

Quinn’s Defense: Quinn’s defense team argued that the evidence was circumstantial and that she was a victim of extortion.

Sentencing Details: Judge Eleanor Vance sentenced Quinn to life in prison without the possibility of parole. She cited the premeditated nature of the crime and Quinn’s lack of remorse.

The case set a precedent for prosecuting individuals who attempt to circumvent the law by hiring others to commit violent acts. Homicide investigations involving hired killers often present unique challenges,requiring meticulous evidence gathering and skillful prosecution.

impact and Aftermath: Ripple Effects of the Crime

The murder of Dr. Harding sent shockwaves through the academic and legal communities. Florida International University established a scholarship in his name to honor his legacy. The case also sparked debate about the security of prominent figures and the potential for wealthy individuals to exploit the legal system.

Dr. Harding Memorial Scholarship: Funds aspiring law students with a focus on international human rights.

Increased Security Concerns: Universities and legal organizations reviewed security protocols for faculty and staff.

* Legislative Review: Some lawmakers called for stricter penalties for murder-for-hire offenses.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of greed, revenge, and the abuse of power. the