We are revisiting one of the most brutal and complex crimes we have ever covered: The Pike County Massacre, also known as the Rhoden Family Murders.

Six years ago, we first discussed the shocking event where eight members of the Rhoden family—four adults, three young men, and a teenage boy—were executed at four different homes in rural Ohio on the same night. At the time of our original episode in 2019, the Wagner family had just been arrested.

Now, years later, the trials and sentencing of the four members of the Wagner family are complete, and we are bringing you a comprehensive update on the fate of George Wagner IV, Jake Wagner, Angela Wagner, and Billy Wagner.

In this update, we detail the chilling motive that led to the execution-style murders:

• Custody and Obsession: The motive was centered on a heated custody battle over a young child shared by killer Jake Wagner and victim Hanna May Rhoden.

• The Plea Deals: We discuss the shocking plea deal struck by Jake Wagner, who pled guilty to all eight murders to spare his mother and father from the death penalty.

• The Sentences: We cover the emotional and tense courtroom proceedings that led to the sentences for all four family members, including the life without parole sentences handed down.

• The Unanswered Questions: While justice has been served in the eyes of the law, we still explore the lingering questions surrounding the planning, the execution, and the sheer ruthlessness required to wipe out an entire family.

Join us as we close the chapter on this dark episode in Ohio's history, examining the convictions, the sentences, and the final search for peace for the surviving Rhoden family members.

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In the heart of Beverly Hills, just after a red-carpet movie premiere, the life of Ronni Chasen, one of Hollywood's most connected and beloved publicists, came to a violent and mysterious end. On November 16, 2010, the 64-year-old was gunned down in her Mercedes-Benz while stopped at a red light. The shocking murder of the woman who helped secure Oscar Gold for films like Driving Miss Daisy and The Hurt Locker instantly made national headlines.

Ronni's influential friends  quickly offered a combined $125,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. This massive reward signaled that her inner circle wasn't convinced the killing was a random act.

A tip to America's Most Wanted led police to Harold Martin Smith, a man with a lengthy criminal record living in a rundown apartment complex. When confronted by detectives, Smith ended his own life with a .38 caliber revolver.

The Beverly Hills Police Department officially closed the case in 2011, declaring Smith the sole killer and the motive of a random robbery gone wrong.

However, this "solved" status remains highly controversial due to several glaring contradictions:

• Ronni's purse was untouched and nothing was taken, contradicting the robbery motive.

• Police claimed Smith was on a bicycle, but her autopsy report suggests an unknown vehicle pulled up beside her car.

• The ballistic evidence was inconclusive; documents revealed the findings were "insufficient for an identification" to definitively match the bullet to Smith's gun.

• Law enforcement was criticized for failing to interview multiple residents and for poor evidence collection.

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Sources:

1. https://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/18/us/18publicist.html 

2. https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna40214433 

3. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ronni-chasen-mourned-by-friends-as-police-seek-killer/

4.  https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna40504342  

5. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/neighbor-man-bragged-of-killing-ronni-chasen/ 

6. https://abcnews.go.com/US/ronni-chasen-killing-police-harold-smith-suicide-gun/story?id=12351453 

7. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/ronni-chasen-death-diane-warren-262519/ 

8. https://thescl.com/in-memoriam/ronni-chasen/ 

9. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/ronni-chasen-64-shot-killed-45901/

10. https://www.today.com/popculture/ronni-chasens-niece-speaks-out-being-dissed-will-wbna40536425  

11. https://jewishjournal.com/uncategorized/84747/ 

12. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/61717259/ronni_sue-chasen 

13. https://6abc.com/archive/7833896/ 

14. https://www.syracuse.com/entertainment/2010/11/hollywood_insiders_gather_to_h.html 

15. https://ew.com/article/2011/03/18/law-and-order-los-angeles-ronni-chasen-episode/ 

16. https://variety.com/2013/film/news/report-ronni-chasen-autopsy-report-contradicts-police-account-1200952872/ 

17. https://www.autopsyfiles.org/reports/Celebs/chasen,%20ronni_report.pdf 

18. https://www.newspapers.com/image/434987704/?match=1&terms=%22ronni%20chasen%22 

19. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/what-happened-night-hollywood-power-publicist-ronni-chasen-was-killed-947580/ 

20. https://www.newspapers.com/image/195136388/?terms=%22ronni%20chasen%22 

21. https://www.newspapers.com/image/195136314/?terms=%22ronni%20chasen%22 

22. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/ronni-chasen-murder-new-police-reports-998646/ 

23. https://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/05/us/05publicist.html 

24. https://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/27/fashion/27chasen.html 

25. https://www.newspapers.com/image/796344832/?match=1&terms=%22ronni%20chasen%22 

26. https://www.newspapers.com/image/632425795/?terms=%22ronni%20chasen%22 

The entire country of Australia was held hostage by a desperate search after the Sydney double murder of Jesse Baird and Luke Davies. On this episode, we delve into the chilling case of the former NSW Police Officer, Beau Lamarre-Condon, whose deadly obsession and tragic relationship led to a shocking disappearance and a killer hiding in plain sight. Hear the details of the terrifying 000 call and the dramatic turns in the ongoing legal case, including Beau Lamarre-Condon's controversial not guilty plea. This stark reminder of lives taken and power abused has captivated the nation.

If you or someone you know needs help, please use these resources:

• Australia (Domestic/Dating Violence Hotline): 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

• US: 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)

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Sources:

BBC News - Tributes flood in for Jesse Baird and Luke Davies

3.The Guardian - a timeline of the search for Jesse Baird and Luke Davies

4.ABC News - what is known in the alleged double murder of Luke Davies and Jesse Baird

5.AFLUA - Jesse Baird - Obituary

6.The Guardian - ‘Light and love’: family and friends to honour Jesse Baird and Luke Davies at Sydney vigil

7.ABC News - Who is the constable and celebrity-chaser Beau Lamarre...

8.news.com.au - NSW Police announce new gun handling rules...

9.ABC News - Beau Lamarre-Condon appears in court...

In December 2022, a hunter found the dismembered body of Mindi Kassotis in the Georgia woods. The victim was the wife of Nicholas Kassotis, a decorated Navy JAG officer who lived a profound double life. We uncover how Nicholas created "Jim McIntyre," a phantom FBI agent, to control and isolate Mindi ultimately leading to malice murder and dismemberment.

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The pursuit of viral fame on TikTok has created a dark undercurrent in the world of true crime. This episode exposes the alarming pattern of TikTok stars hiding violent reality behind their polished online personas, leading to shocking consequences. We examine crimes intertwined with the app, some happening right now in 2025.

We dive into the chilling, developing case of musician DV4D(David Anthony Burke). His rise to fame with the hit song "Romantic Homicide" was shattered when the decomposed body of 15-year-old runaway Celeste Rivas Hernandez was found in his Tesla in the Hollywood Hills.

Viral Lives, Violent Ends: Other TikTok True Crimes

D4vd's story is not an isolated incident. The pressure to maintain a perfect online image has driven others to commit unthinkable acts:

• JinnKid (Ali Abulaban): The double murder committed by influencer Ali Abulaban (JinnKid). He used a listening app on his five-year-old daughter's iPad to spy on his estranged wife, Ana, before executing her and her friend, Rayburn Barron.

• The Bukhari Murders: The ruthless blackmail and double murder plot involving UK mother-daughter TikTok duo Mahek Bukhari and Ansreen Bukhari. They killed two victims,

•  Saqib Hussain and Hashim Ijazuddin, to protect Mahek's influencer career and their reputation.

• Sarah Grace Patrick: The manipulative case of a 17-year-old who used TikTok to post grieving videos after allegedly murdering her own parents, all while secretly pitching her family's tragedy to true crime influencers and bloggers.

This episode examines how technology has become a double-edged sword, creating new motives for murder and giving people tools for manipulation and deception.

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The official story was that convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester died in a South African prison fire on May 3, 2022, but the truth was far more shocking: he had faked his own death with a stolen corpse and easily walked out of a maximum security prison.

Known as "The Facebook Rapist" for luring women with fake international modeling opportunities, Bester was serving a 30-year sentence for the rape and robbery of two women and the murder of his girlfriend, Nomfundo Tyhulu, in 2011.

In this episode, we unravel the chaotic details of his escape and his life on the run:

• The Fake Death: An investigation into the cell fire and the burned remains raised immediate suspicion. The body used to stage his death was later confirmed to have died before the fire from blunt force trauma to the head, and DNA did not match Bester . 

• The Accomplice: Dr. Nandipha Magudumana (Dr. Nandi): Celebrity physician Dr. Nandi, who claimed to be Bester's customary law wife, was his essential partner in crime. She initially collected the body and was later spotted shopping with Bester, aiding his life as a fugitive. She is a glamorous doctor who had it all, but chose a criminal life as a "cold-blooded accomplice".

• Life as a Fugitive: Before his escape was confirmed, Bester was running multiple scam companies from prison. After walking out, he continued his fraudulent schemes with Dr. Nandi, meeting clients and living in a rented mansion until their arrest in Tanzania in April 2023. 

This incredible true crime saga is also the subject of the Netflix docuseries, Beauty and the Bester.

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Sources:

1. https://www.scribd.com/document/646714591/State-v-Thabo-Bester-WCC-16-Aug-2021-by-Cloete-AJ 

2. https://groundup.org.za/article/many-mysteries-surround-death-facebook-rapist-thabo-bester/ 

3. https://groundup.org.za/article/did-the-facebook-rapist-die-in-his-cell-or-did-he-escape-from-prison/

4. https://200youngsouthafricans.co.za/nandipha-magudumana-2018/ 

5. https://www.justice.gov.za/legislation/acts/1998-120.pdf  

6. https://groundup.org.za/article/man-resembling-facebook-rapist-thabo-bester-spotted-in-sandton/ 

7. https://groundup.org.za/article/government-admits-thabo-bester-has-escaped/ 

8. https://groundup.org.za/article/facebook-rapist-deputy-minister-was-informed-by-warden-in-june-2022-thabo-bester-escaped/ 

9. https://groundup.org.za/article/g4s-booted-from-control-mangaung-prison-after-thabo-bester-escape/ 

10. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-nandipha-magudumana-arrested-in-tanzania/

11. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-prison-break-two-men-in-court-charged-with-murder/ 

12. https://groundup.org.za/article/nandipha-magudumana-appears-in-court-for-first-time/

13. https://groundup.org.za/article/recaptured-thabo-bester-returns-to-courtroom/  

14. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-escape-g4s-guard-in-court/ 

15. https://groundup.org.za/article/nandipha-madugumana-accomplices-to-stay-in-prison-for-now-her-dad-has-been-granted-bail/ 

16. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-escape-many-unanswered-questions-surround-death-katlego-bereng/ 

17. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-escape-state-says-prison-cctv-technician-was-offered-a-r25-million-bribe/ 

18. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-escape-friends-remember-katlego-bereng/ 

19. https://groundup.org.za/article/burial-for-katlego-bereng-takes-place-in-bloemfontein/

20. https://groundup.org.za/article/magistrate-denies-bail-to-four-accused-in-thabo-bester-saga/ 

21. https://groundup.org.za/article/judge-rejects-dr-nandipha-urgent-bid-for-freedom/ 

22. https://groundup.org.za/article/police-testimony-reveals-how-thabo-bester-allegedly-bribed-prison-officials-to-escape-from-prison/ 

23. https://groundup.org.za/article/ninth-suspect-in-thabo-bester-escape-appears-in-court/ 

24. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-saga-judge-grants-r10000-bail-to-three-more-co-accused/ 

25. https://groundup.org.za/article/three-more-g4s-prison-officials-in-court-for-aiding-thabo-besters-escape/ 

26. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-escape-court-grants-r10000-bail-to-one-of-three-prison-officers-arrested-last-week/ 

27. https://groundup.org.za/article/nandipha-magudumana-denied-bail/ 

28. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-escape-trial-to-start-in-february-2024/ 

29. https://groundup.org.za/article/magudumana-must-stay-in-prison-sca-rules/ 

30. https://groundup.org.za/article/judge-warns-thabo-bester-co-accused-not-to-delay-proceedings/ 

31. https://www.thesouthafrican.com/lifestyle/celeb-news/mkhuseli-magudumana-who-dr-nandipha-ex-husband-thabo-bester-divorce-children-17-april-2023/ 

32. https://www.thesouthafrican.com/lifestyle/nandipha-magudumana-meet-the-doctor-who-plotted-thabo-besters-escape-september-2023/ 

33. https://iol.co.za/the-star/news/2023-04-13-who-is-dr-nandipha-magudumana-and-how-deep-in-trouble-is-she/ 

34. https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2023-03-30-watch-dr-nandipha-from-beauty-boss-to-fugitive-holidays-cars-and-celebrities/ 

35. https://iol.co.za/sundayindependent/news/2022-05-08-facebook-rapist-mysteriously-burns-to-ashes-in-his-cell/ 

36. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-65311848 

37. https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/minister-aaron-motsoaledi-home-affairs-related-aspects-thabo-bester-and-dr 

38. https://powerfulwomen.mg.co.za/dr-nandipha-magudumana-2020/ 

39. https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2022-05-03-facebook-rapist-thabo-bester-found-dead-in-his-mangaung-prison-cell/ 

40. https://iol.co.za/news/south-africa/kwazulu-natal/2011-10-14-i-was-raped-says-facebook-rapist/ 

41. https://iol.co.za/news/2012-05-04-facebook-rapist-in-dock-for-fraud/ 

42. https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/news/2012-08-14-i-dont-know-why-i-killed-her-facebook-rapist/

43. https://www.news24.com/drum/news/facebook-rapist-sentence-reduced-20170728  

44. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/accused-facebook-rapist-thabo-bester-loses-bid-block-netflix-documentary/ 

45. https://iol.co.za/dailynews/news/2025-06-17-court-withdraws-charges-against-john-masukela-in-thabo-bester-escape-case/

46. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-dr-nandipha-made-millions-from-property-company/ 

47. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-ran-glitzy-multi-million-rand-scam---from-behind-bars/ 

48. https://groundup.org.za/article/more-evidence-emerges-of-links-between-thabo-bester-and-dr-nandipha-magudumana/ 

49. https://groundup.org.za/article/police-minister-confirms-thabo-bester-was-let-go-while-he-was-on-the-run/ 

50. https://groundup.org.za/article/thabo-bester-saga-police-fail-to-collect-evidence/ 

51. https://groundup.org.za/article/government-knew-of-thabo-besters-escape-since-october-but-did-nothing/ 

52. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-6536554

In the gripping second part of the Daniel Markel case we delve deeper into the intricate web of deceit surrounding the murder-for-hire plot. This episode focuses on the trials of the two masterminds behind the shocking crime: Charlie and Donna Adelson.

• Charlie Adelson's Trial: The episode begins with the conviction of Charlie Adelson. The state's case was built on compelling evidence, including audio recordings from a Miami restaurant where Charlie discussed killing a blackmailer or a police officer. The money trail connecting the Adelson family's dental practice to Katie Magbanua, the ex-girlfriend of the hitman, also played a crucial role. Charlie took the stand in his own defense, claiming he was being extorted by the hitmen. This defense was ultimately not believed by the jury, leading to his conviction for first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation.

• Donna Adelson's Arrest and Trial: Just seven days after her son's conviction, the matriarch, Donna Adelson, was arrested at Miami International Airport as she and her husband, Harvey, were attempting to flee to Vietnam, a non-extradition country. Key evidence against her included monitored phone calls where she discussed fleeing the country and a recording where she was overheard mulling over extradition policies and reading text messages from her daughter, Wendi. During her trial, testimony from her fellow inmates revealed her attempts to orchestrate false testimony and her admission of her role in the murder. The verdict was unforgettable, as Donna gasped dramatically when she was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation, becoming the fifth person convicted in Dan's murder.

• The Family's Web of Lies: The podcast also uncovers new details about the involvement of other family members. Wendi Adelson, Dan's ex-wife, testified under immunity but was confronted with her past inconsistencies about her knowledge of the murder plot. It was also revealed that Donna and Wendi had a deep knowledge of Dan's daily routine, and Wendi's ex-boyfriend testified that she once mentioned Charlie looking into a hitman for $15,000.

• Legacy and Justice: The episode concludes with the powerful impact of the case on Dan Markel's parents, Ruth and Phil Markel. Their advocacy led to a new law and a long-awaited reunion with their grandsons.

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Sources:

Dan Markel Murder

1. Who Had Dan Markel Killed? January 17, 2018

2. New York Times Wedding Announcement February 26, 2006

3. Adelson flight to Vietnam lets state argue 'consciousness of guilt' in Markel murder, November 15, 2023

4. DAN MARKEL MURDER TRIAL: How we got here

5. Katherine Magbanua sentenced to life in prison July 29, 2022

6. Katherine Magbanua found guilty of all charges in murder of Dan Markel May 30, 2022

7. Suspects in Markel murder case to be tried together June 20, 2018

8. Sigfredo Garcia found guilty, mistrial declared for Katherine Magbanua in Dan Markel's murder

9. Charlie Adelson arrested on murder charges in connection to Dan Markel murder  April 21, 2022

10. Sigfredo Garcia gets life in prison for murder of Dan Markel Sept. 20, 2019

11. Dan Markel case: Family says justice 'partially served' with murder verdict and mistrial Oct 11, 2019

12. Florida dentist guilty of hiring hitman to kill brother-in-law Daniel Markel after custody fight with relative Nov 6, 2023

13. Charlie Adelson sentenced to life in murder for hire plot | CNN Dec 12, 2023

14. Katherine Magbanua, previously convicted, testifies on Day 3 of Charlie Adelson trial Oct. 30, 2023

15. Sigfredo Garcia Probable Cause Affidavit

16. Charlie Adelson Appeal

17. Markel, Adelson sparred up to the end 

18. ‘Chilling’ conversation takes center stage as Wendi’s ex testifies in Donna Adelson murder trial (Jeff, June, testimonies)

19. Dysfunctional family reunion: Kids against mom in Donna Adelson trial | Analysis (Rob and Wendi’s testimonies)

20. Donna Adelson arrested in Dan Markel murder after booking one-way plane tickets to Vietnam

21. Friends recall Dan Markel

22. https://www.justicefordan.com/post/remembering-danny-on-his-50th-birthday

23. A law professor was stalked and killed by hit men. His former mother-in-law is now on trial for the 2014 contract killing | CNN

24. Wendi Adelson says Donna Adelson 'micromanaged my life' | Court TV

25. Charlie Adelson trashes ‘inbred’ jurors in jail calls to his mom | Court TV

26. FL v. Adelson: Dentist Mastermind Murder Trial | Court TV

27. https://www.stevenbepstein.com/wendi-adelson-interview

28. https://edca.1dca.org/DcaDocs/2019/4005/2019-4005_Brief_1043927_RC12202D20Transcript20Received.pdf

29. How Police Tracked Down and Caught 2 Suspected Hit Men in FSU Professor Murder Case 

30. https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/bump-operation-led-to-phone-calls-restaurant-meeting-jurors-told-in-trial-for-murder-of-law-prof-markel

31. Phone call recordings and video evidence played in courtroom to wrap day 7 of Donna Adelson trial

32. Motives, codewords, wiretaps, and persistence: Backstory of Charlie Adelson’s arrest

33. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2016/09/08/police-markels-ex-brother--law-looked-into-hitman/90093878/

34. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVpGpA-Qbno

35. Wendi Adelson's ex-boyfriend testifies about chilling hitman comment | Court TV

36. Wendi Adelson says Donna Adelson 'micromanaged my life' | Court TV

37. Donna and Adelson family net worth: 'Piles' of cash, millions in bank

38. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-gyH8rXdIg

39. ‘Spike in cash,’ investigators following the money after Dan Markel’s murder

40. https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/judge_in_dan_markel_murder_case_approves_subpoena_for_breast_implant_paymen?utm_source=chatgpt.com#google_vignette

41. Markel murder trial day 6: Retired, undercover FBI agent takes stand

42. ​​Money was big focus on Day 6 of Dan Markel murder trial

43. Prosecutor questions Florida dentist's claim he was extorted, not a murder-for-hire mastermind | AP News

44. Wendi Adelson says she was surprised to learn Charlie knew Dan Markel's murderer all along

45. Charlie Adelson testifies about gifts to co-conspirator, texts with mom in Dan Markel murder trial

46. https://www.courttv.com/news/fl-v-donna-adelson-matriarch-mastermind-murder-trial/

47. Man is charged in death of law prof Dan Markel; case is reportedly investigated as murder for hire.

48. New Suspect Arrested in 2014 Murder of Florida Professor Dan Markel - ABC News

49. Markel, Adelson sparred up to the end

50. See a timeline of key dates in the Dan Markel murder case

51. Judge orders parents to appear for questioning as Charlie Adelson’s trial approaches

52. Charlie Adelson appeals conviction and life sentence for 2014 murder of Dan Markel

53. https://www.courttv.com/news/charlie-adelson-transfers-to-south-dakota-prison/#google_vignette

54. ‘It’s not me:’ Donna Adelson’s plea in call to undercover agent wraps up marathon day of testimony

55. State rests its case in Donna Adelson trial after witnesses who spent time with Donna in jail testify

56. Donna Adelson’s murder trial features her adult children, fellow inmates and an undercover FBI agent as witnesses | CNN

57. Donna’s emails (MUST READ)

58. Ruth Markel talks about her search to find meaning after the murder of her son, Dan.

59. https://ruthmarkel.com/

60. The Dan Markel Case: An Interview With Ruth Markel

61. Wendi Adelson testifies in mother’s murder trial

62. Jury hears opening statements in trial of Florida matriarch charged in her ex-son-in-law's death

63. Ruth Markel wins Victim/Survivor of the Year Award, for 'kind,' firm' advocacy, passage of Markel Act & more

64. The Dan Markel Case: Video Of Wendi Adelson Reacting To His Death; Charlie Adelson Joking About Hiring A Hitman - Above the Law

65. LIVE BLOG: ‘It will be up to y’all to decide,’ Wendi Adelson testifies in brother’s murder trial

66. Ex-wife Wendi Adelson testifies under immunity in Dan Markel case

67. PrawfsBlawg: Cubby Markel's Got a Name! Or two... or three.

68. Was Wendi Adelson Involved in the Murder-for-Hire Plot of Her Ex-Husband? Inside Dan Markel's Killing — and Where She Is Now

69. Wendi Adelson’s Police Interview Deconstructed By Homicide Detective, FBI Special Agent

70. Part Two: Wendi Adelson’s Police Interview Analyzed By Seasoned Investigators

71. Wendi Adelson Interview

72. Judge Admonishes Donna Adelson for Not Controlling Emotions

73. Judge asks Donna Adelson to control her emotions during testimony

74. Jailhouse informants testify Donna Adelson confessed, tried to buy false testimony | Court TV

75. https://www.wtxl.com/downtown-tallahassee/jury-learning-about-donnas-character-through-close-friends-in-day-1-of-defense-presenting-its-case

76. Donna Adelson defense casts suspicion on Charlie, Wendi as they seek trial dismissal

77. ‘Our family was cursed’: Jury hears desperate Donna Adelson call, attempt to leave U.S.

78. https://www.wctv.tv/2025/08/27/live-updates-donna-adelson-trial-testimony-day-4/

79. Family drama takes center stage at Donna Adelson's murder trial | Court TV

80. Donna Adelson's big decision: Take the stand or hope silence saves her | Legal analysis

In this episode, we delve into the shocking murder of Harvard-educated law professor Dan Markel. His life was cut short in a targeted hit that investigators believe was a murder-for-hire plot.

This is more than just a true crime drama; it's a story of a devoted father and brilliant legal scholar caught in a bitter family feud that spiraled into something unthinkable. Dan's divorce from his ex-wife, Wendi Adelson, became an all-out war over the custody of their two young sons and relocation to South Florida.

You'll hear about the powerful and controlling Adelson family, specifically Wendy's parents, Donna and Harvey, and her brother, Charlie, who had an "obsession" with their hatred of Dan. As the story unfolds, you’ll discover disturbing emails from Donna Adelson detailing a plan to manipulate Dan, including using his Jewish faith against him, and even joking about dressing the children in Hitler Youth uniforms.

The police investigation quickly turned to the Adelson family after Wendy made some unusual comments and her boyfriend, Jeff Lacasse, urged them to look into her family. The timing of the murder, which took place just after a hearing on family control was set, was not lost on investigators, who saw a clear motive for murder. After his death, Wendy quickly moved their children to Miami and cut off contact with Dan's parents.

Join us for Part 1 of this unbelievable case as we explore the chilling details that lead to the death of Dan Markel. The second part of this episode is available now on Patreon and will be available everywhere on Thursday.

Thank you to this week's sponsors!

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Sources:

Dan Markel Murder

1. Who Had Dan Markel Killed? January 17, 2018

2. New York Times Wedding Announcement February 26, 2006

3. Adelson flight to Vietnam lets state argue 'consciousness of guilt' in Markel murder, November 15, 2023

4. DAN MARKEL MURDER TRIAL: How we got here

5. Katherine Magbanua sentenced to life in prison July 29, 2022

6. Katherine Magbanua found guilty of all charges in murder of Dan Markel May 30, 2022

7. Suspects in Markel murder case to be tried together June 20, 2018

8. Sigfredo Garcia found guilty, mistrial declared for Katherine Magbanua in Dan Markel's murder

9. Charlie Adelson arrested on murder charges in connection to Dan Markel murder  April 21, 2022

10. Sigfredo Garcia gets life in prison for murder of Dan Markel Sept. 20, 2019

11. Dan Markel case: Family says justice 'partially served' with murder verdict and mistrial Oct 11, 2019

12. Florida dentist guilty of hiring hitman to kill brother-in-law Daniel Markel after custody fight with relative Nov 6, 2023

13. Charlie Adelson sentenced to life in murder for hire plot | CNN Dec 12, 2023

14. Katherine Magbanua, previously convicted, testifies on Day 3 of Charlie Adelson trial Oct. 30, 2023

15. Sigfredo Garcia Probable Cause Affidavit

16. Charlie Adelson Appeal

17. Markel, Adelson sparred up to the end 

18. ‘Chilling’ conversation takes center stage as Wendi’s ex testifies in Donna Adelson murder trial (Jeff, June, testimonies)

19. Dysfunctional family reunion: Kids against mom in Donna Adelson trial | Analysis (Rob and Wendi’s testimonies)

20. Donna Adelson arrested in Dan Markel murder after booking one-way plane tickets to Vietnam

21. Friends recall Dan Markel

22. https://www.justicefordan.com/post/remembering-danny-on-his-50th-birthday

23. A law professor was stalked and killed by hit men. His former mother-in-law is now on trial for the 2014 contract killing | CNN

24. Wendi Adelson says Donna Adelson 'micromanaged my life' | Court TV

25. Charlie Adelson trashes ‘inbred’ jurors in jail calls to his mom | Court TV

26. FL v. Adelson: Dentist Mastermind Murder Trial | Court TV

27. https://www.stevenbepstein.com/wendi-adelson-interview

28. https://edca.1dca.org/DcaDocs/2019/4005/2019-4005_Brief_1043927_RC12202D20Transcript20Received.pdf

29. How Police Tracked Down and Caught 2 Suspected Hit Men in FSU Professor Murder Case 

30. https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/bump-operation-led-to-phone-calls-restaurant-meeting-jurors-told-in-trial-for-murder-of-law-prof-markel

31. Phone call recordings and video evidence played in courtroom to wrap day 7 of Donna Adelson trial

32. Motives, codewords, wiretaps, and persistence: Backstory of Charlie Adelson’s arrest

33. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2016/09/08/police-markels-ex-brother--law-looked-into-hitman/90093878/

34. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVpGpA-Qbno

35. Wendi Adelson's ex-boyfriend testifies about chilling hitman comment | Court TV

36. Wendi Adelson says Donna Adelson 'micromanaged my life' | Court TV

37. Donna and Adelson family net worth: 'Piles' of cash, millions in bank

38. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-gyH8rXdIg

39. ‘Spike in cash,’ investigators following the money after Dan Markel’s murder

40. https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/judge_in_dan_markel_murder_case_approves_subpoena_for_breast_implant_paymen?utm_source=chatgpt.com#google_vignette

41. Markel murder trial day 6: Retired, undercover FBI agent takes stand

42. ​​Money was big focus on Day 6 of Dan Markel murder trial

43. Prosecutor questions Florida dentist's claim he was extorted, not a murder-for-hire mastermind | AP News

44. Wendi Adelson says she was surprised to learn Charlie knew Dan Markel's murderer all along

45. Charlie Adelson testifies about gifts to co-conspirator, texts with mom in Dan Markel murder trial

46. https://www.courttv.com/news/fl-v-donna-adelson-matriarch-mastermind-murder-trial/

47. Man is charged in death of law prof Dan Markel; case is reportedly investigated as murder for hire.

48. New Suspect Arrested in 2014 Murder of Florida Professor Dan Markel - ABC News

49. Markel, Adelson sparred up to the end

50. See a timeline of key dates in the Dan Markel murder case

51. Judge orders parents to appear for questioning as Charlie Adelson’s trial approaches

52. Charlie Adelson appeals conviction and life sentence for 2014 murder of Dan Markel

53. https://www.courttv.com/news/charlie-adelson-transfers-to-south-dakota-prison/#google_vignette

54. ‘It’s not me:’ Donna Adelson’s plea in call to undercover agent wraps up marathon day of testimony

55. State rests its case in Donna Adelson trial after witnesses who spent time with Donna in jail testify

56. Donna Adelson’s murder trial features her adult children, fellow inmates and an undercover FBI agent as witnesses | CNN

57. Donna’s emails (MUST READ)

58. Ruth Markel talks about her search to find meaning after the murder of her son, Dan.

59. https://ruthmarkel.com/

60. The Dan Markel Case: An Interview With Ruth Markel

61. Wendi Adelson testifies in mother’s murder trial

62. Jury hears opening statements in trial of Florida matriarch charged in her ex-son-in-law's death

63. Ruth Markel wins Victim/Survivor of the Year Award, for 'kind,' firm' advocacy, passage of Markel Act & more

64. The Dan Markel Case: Video Of Wendi Adelson Reacting To His Death; Charlie Adelson Joking About Hiring A Hitman - Above the Law

65. LIVE BLOG: ‘It will be up to y’all to decide,’ Wendi Adelson testifies in brother’s murder trial

66. Ex-wife Wendi Adelson testifies under immunity in Dan Markel case

67. PrawfsBlawg: Cubby Markel's Got a Name! Or two... or three.

68. Was Wendi Adelson Involved in the Murder-for-Hire Plot of Her Ex-Husband? Inside Dan Markel's Killing — and Where She Is Now

69. Wendi Adelson’s Police Interview Deconstructed By Homicide Detective, FBI Special Agent

70. Part Two: Wendi Adelson’s Police Interview Analyzed By Seasoned Investigators

71. Wendi Adelson Interview

72. Judge Admonishes Donna Adelson for Not Controlling Emotions

73. Judge asks Donna Adelson to control her emotions during testimony

74. Jailhouse informants testify Donna Adelson confessed, tried to buy false testimony | Court TV

75. https://www.wtxl.com/downtown-tallahassee/jury-learning-about-donnas-character-through-close-friends-in-day-1-of-defense-presenting-its-case

76. Donna Adelson defense casts suspicion on Charlie, Wendi as they seek trial dismissal

77. ‘Our family was cursed’: Jury hears desperate Donna Adelson call, attempt to leave U.S.

78. https://www.wctv.tv/2025/08/27/live-updates-donna-adelson-trial-testimony-day-4/

79. Family drama takes center stage at Donna Adelson's murder trial | Court TV

80. Donna Adelson's big decision: Take the stand or hope silence saves her | Legal analysis

This week, we discuss a series of "intellectual crimes" in which the stolen objects were more valuable for their history and status than for their resale price.  And stick around for an artsy "Last Thing Before We Go".

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The Boston Public Library's "Lost" Art: We dive into the bizarre case of two priceless artworks—an Albrecht Dürer engraving and a Rembrandt van Rijn etching—that went missing from one of the country's most prestigious libraries. The disappearance caused a media uproar and led to the resignation of the library's president . But in a twist, the art was never stolen; it was just in the wrong spot for an entire year. 

The Man Who Loved Books Too Much: We explore the story of John Charles Gilkey, a man driven by intellectual vanity who used stolen credit card numbers to amass a collection of rare books worth over $200,000. Gilkey wasn't in it for the money; he simply wanted to appear to be a sophisticated intellectual . His obsessive "bibliokleptomania" forced the rare book community to tighten security and share information on thefts. 

The Notorious Map Thief: Next, we cover Edward Forbes Smiley III, a charming and respected rare map dealer whose financial troubles led him to a life of crime. Using an X-Acto blade, he would carefully slice rare maps out of centuries-old atlases from institutions like Yale and Harvard. We reveal how a single misplaced blade led to his downfall, exposing his theft of nearly 100 maps .

The Notorious Map Thief: Next, we cover Edward Forbes Smiley III, a charming and respected rare map dealer whose financial troubles led him to a life of crime. Using an X-Acto blade, he would carefully slice rare maps out of centuries-old atlases from institutions like Yale and Harvard. We reveal how a single misplaced blade led to his downfall, exposing his theft of nearly 100 maps.

Check-out bonus episodes up on Spotify and Apple podcast now!

Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast . 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more. 

On a warm summer night in 1908, 19-year-old Hazel Drew disappeared from Troy, New York. Her body was found days later, and the brutal details of the crime sparked a century-old mystery.

Join us as we explore the unsolved murder that inspired the fictional character of Laura Palmer from the cult classic TV series, Twin Peaks. We dive into the bizarre clues, conflicting timelines, and a tangled web of suspects that left investigators with more questions than answers. From the mysterious letters found in her trunk to her complicated secret life, this true crime case has all the elements of a classic whodunit.

Listen now to uncover the real-life mystery behind the case and decide for yourself who killed Hazel Drew.

Thank you to this week's sponsors!

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Check-out bonus episodes up on Spotify and Apple podcast now!

Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast . 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more. 

Sources: 

1. https://www.newspapers.com/image/299493918/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

2. https://www.newspapers.com/image/889980064/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

3. https://www.newspapers.com/image/58214018/?match=3&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22

4. https://www.newspapers.com/image/29236647/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22  

5. https://www.newspapers.com/image/79103441/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

6. https://www.newspapers.com/image/58214039/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22

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8. https://www.newspapers.com/image/370736790/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22

9. https://www.newspapers.com/image/370738222/?match=2&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22  

10. https://www.newspapers.com/image/252705403/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22

11. https://www.newspapers.com/image/20540554/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22   

12. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1140052126/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

13. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1140052200/?terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22

14. https://www.newspapers.com/image/555969090/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22  

15. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1139912166/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

16. https://www.newspapers.com/image/135466378/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

17. https://www.newspapers.com/image/543741096/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

18. https://www.newspapers.com/image/555969585/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

19. https://www.newspapers.com/image/370750504/?terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

20. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1139912222/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

21. https://www.newspapers.com/image/555969972/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

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23. https://www.newspapers.com/image/79103989/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

24. https://www.newspapers.com/image/370752730/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

25. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1187048909/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

26. https://www.newspapers.com/image/79104149/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

27. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1139912358/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

28. https://www.newspapers.com/image/79104295/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

29. https://www.newspapers.com/image/420741310/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

30. https://www.newspapers.com/image/20550482/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

31. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1094787272/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

32. https://www.newspapers.com/image/420742269/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

33. https://www.newspapers.com/image/79104488/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

34. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1094787509/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

35. https://www.newspapers.com/image/142992411/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22%20AND%20%22teal%20pond%22 

36. https://www.newspapers.com/image/862841623/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

37. https://www.newspapers.com/image/965792958/?match=1&terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22, https://www.newspapers.com/image/965792986/?terms=%22Hazel%20Drew%22 

38.  https://wnyt.com/top-stories/murder-mystery-haunts-rensselaer-county-116-years-later/ 

39. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/36451324/hazel_irene-drew