The Murder for Hire of Dan Markel: STS Files

Joel Waldman

Unravel one of the most shocking murder-for-hire cases in American legal history — the 2014 killing of Florida State University law professor Dan Markel. This investigative episode from STS Files dives deep into the twisted web of family conflict, betrayal, and conspiracy that led to his assassination. Through exclusive updates, court testimony breakdowns, and insider analysis, we explore how Charlie Adelson, Katherine Magbanua, and Sigfredo Garcia became central figures in a plot that stunned the nation. From undercover recordings to trial revelations and the pursuit of justice, this is the definitive look into the case that continues to grip true crime followers worldwide.

  1. FEB 6

    Charlie Adelson's Appelate Hearing After Being Convicted of Murder for Dan Markel

    The spotlight is back on the Charlie Adelson appeal as the convicted killer of Florida State University law professor Dan Markel returns to court for his appellate hearing. In this episode, we break down what the Charlie Adelson appeal means, the arguments raised by the defense, and how prosecutors are responding. The Charlie Adelson appeal could determine whether his murder conviction stands—or if a new legal chapter begins. We walk through the original conviction, key evidence presented at trial, and the legal issues now under review by the appellate court. This episode delivers a clear, no-frills explanation of what happened in court, what judges will consider, and what could happen next in one of the most closely followed cases tied to the Markel murder. Key Points Covered in This Episode: Overview of Charlie Adelson’s murder conviction What the defense is arguing in the appeal Legal standards appellate judges must follow Possible outcomes of the Charlie Adelson appeal What this means for the broader Markel family case A direct update for listeners following survivor stories, true crime news, cold cases, STS podcast, and real crime stories, with a focus on facts, legal clarity, and what comes next. Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    2h 8m

  2. FEB 5

    Charlie Adelson's Appelate Hearing After Being Convicted of Murder for Dan Markel

    The spotlight is back on the Charlie Adelson appeal as the convicted killer of Florida State University law professor Dan Markel returns to court for his appellate hearing. In this episode, we break down what the Charlie Adelson appeal means, the arguments raised by the defense, and how prosecutors are responding. The Charlie Adelson appeal could determine whether his murder conviction stands—or if a new legal chapter begins. We walk through the original conviction, key evidence presented at trial, and the legal issues now under review by the appellate court. This episode delivers a clear, no-frills explanation of what happened in court, what judges will consider, and what could happen next in one of the most closely followed cases tied to the Markel murder. Key Points Covered in This Episode: Overview of Charlie Adelson’s murder conviction What the defense is arguing in the appeal Legal standards appellate judges must follow Possible outcomes of the Charlie Adelson appeal What this means for the broader Markel family case A direct update for listeners following survivor stories, true crime news, cold cases, STS podcast, and real crime stories, with a focus on facts, legal clarity, and what comes next. Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    2h 13m

  3. 12/24/2025

    The Dan Markel Murder: Ruth Markel on Losing her Son, Grief & Gratitude after 5 Convictions

    The Dan Markel murder remains one of the most heartbreaking and complex cases in true crime history. In this powerful episode, Ruth Markel shares her experience of losing her son, navigating years of legal battles, and finding gratitude after five convictions connected to the Dan Markel murder. Her perspective offers an emotional and deeply personal look at grief, resilience, and the long road to justice. We explore how the Dan Markel murder unfolded, the significance of the convictions, and what this case means for families seeking accountability. Through survivor stories and true crime news coverage, this STS podcast episode connects the case to cold cases and real crime stories that continue to impact communities nationwide. Key Points Covered: Ruth Markel’s reflections on loss, grief, and strength The impact of five convictions in the Dan Markel murder case The years-long legal journey toward justice How families cope while cases move through the courts Connections to survivor stories, true crime news, cold cases, STS podcast insights, and real crime stories Welcome to Surviving the Survivor, the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #truecrime. In this STS Thanksgiving special, Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman is joined by #BestGuest Ruth Markel as they discuss the power of loss...and the beauty of gratitude. Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    24 min

  4. 12/22/2025

    The Adelsons: The Murder of Dan, the Mastermind & What Donna Said Behind Bars

    The Adelson family murder case takes center stage as we break down the killing of Dan Markel, the alleged mastermind behind the plot, and the explosive statements Donna Adelson reportedly made behind bars. In this episode, we unpack how the Adelson family murder case evolved into one of the most closely followed stories in true crime news, raising new questions about motive, planning, and accountability. We walk through the timeline of the murder-for-hire investigation, key courtroom developments, and how prosecutors connected multiple suspects to the crime. The episode explores recorded conversations, legal strategy, and what Donna Adelson’s jailhouse comments could mean for the future of the Adelson family murder case. Listeners also get insight into family dynamics, alleged orchestration of the crime, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Through real crime stories and survivor stories, the STS podcast examines how complex cases unfold over years while leaving lingering cold cases questions about influence, power, and evidence. This episode delivers a clear, conversational breakdown of what’s known, what’s disputed, and what may come next. Key Points Covered: Overview of Dan Markel’s murder investigation Alleged mastermind theory explained Donna Adelson’s reported statements behind bars Timeline of arrests and legal proceedings Prosecutors’ murder-for-hire case strategy Impact on true crime news coverage Remaining questions and cold cases discussions Welcome to Surviving the Survivor, the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #truecrime. In this STS episode, Emmy Award-winning journalist Joel Waldman is joined by #BestGuests as they break down the case, the shocking family dynamics, and the growing speculation about who truly orchestrated the murder-for-hire plot that ended Dan Markel’s life.  Dan Markel was gunned down in his own garage seconds after pulling into his driveway in Tallahassee in 2014 — a crime that stunned the academic world and sparked a decade-long fight for justice. Now, with Donna and Charlie Adelson serving life sentences, the question remains: Will there be more arrests? And who is the real mastermind behind this dark and senseless murder?  Join us as we uncover the evidence, the motives, and the pursuit of #JusticeForDanMarkel. Support the show & be a part of #STSNation: Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 26m

  5. 12/22/2025

    Real, Raw and Unfiltered Truth About Prison Lifers Like Donna Adelson | Justice for Dan Markel

    What’s life really like for prison lifers — the convicted killers, the masterminds, the ones who will never walk free again? In this eye-opening episode, we uncover the real, raw, and unfiltered truth about what happens behind bars for inmates like Donna Adelson, who’s now serving life in prison for orchestrating the murder of her ex–son-in-law, FSU law professor Dan Markel.  Once living a life of luxury and control, Donna Adelson is now facing a stark new reality — from prison politics to daily survival, it’s a world few can imagine. But what really awaits lifers like her inside?  Join STS and Joel Waldman as we pull back the curtain on life without parole, exposing the harsh realities and untold truths that few dare to talk about in this one-one-one STS Special with John Debell.  #JusticeforDanMarkel #DonnaAdelson #DanMarkel #TrueCrime #JusticeForDanMarkel #PrisonLife #Lifers Thanks for supporting the show and being a part of #STSNation!  Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 4m

  6. 12/22/2025

    Luxury to Lockdown: Donna Adelson's Forever Home is Behind Bars After Dan Markel Murder Conviction

    Donna Adelson, convicted in the murder-for-hire plot that took the life of her ex–son-in-law, FSU law professor Dan Markel, is now being processed into her forever home—behind bars for life.  Welcome to Surviving the Survivor, the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #truecrime. In this STS episode, Emmy Award-Winning Journalist Joel Waldman and a panel of #bestguests take us inside one of the most notorious women's prisons.  Once living a life of wealth and privilege, Donna’s world has come crashing down as she’s processed into one of the most dangerous women’s prisons in the U.S. Prosecutors say the Adelson family targeted Dan Markel after a bitter custody battle, leading to his shocking murder in his own driveway. Donna now joins her son, Charlie Adelson, already serving life for the same crime. As the Adelson family unravels, many are asking—has justice finally been served for Dan Markel? STS investigates what’s next for Donna and the continuing pursuit of justice for Dan.  Thanks for supporting the show and being a part of #STSNation!  Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 30m

  7. 12/22/2025

    Honoring Dan Markel: His Life, Legacy & The Tragic Murder That Shocked a Community | STS Special

    Today, on what would have been Dan Markel’s birthday, STS honors the life, legacy, and tragic loss of the brilliant law professor whose story continues to impact so many. Dan Markel was a respected Florida State University law professor, a father, and a beloved member of the Tallahassee community—known for his sharp intellect and devotion to justice.  In 2014, Dan’s life was cut short when he was gunned down in his driveway in a shocking murder-for-hire plot that would later expose a tangled web of betrayal, greed, and family secrets. Years later, arrests and convictions—including those of Charlie Adelson, Donna Adelson, and others connected to the case—have brought new attention to the tragedy and the ongoing pursuit of justice.  In this emotional STS True Crime Special, Emmy Award-winning journalist Joel Waldman reflects on Dan Markel’s life, his impact on the legal world, and the loved ones keeping his memory alive. We look back on who Dan was—not just a victim, but a father, scholar, and man who inspired those around him.  Join us in honoring Dan Markel’s memory and exploring how his legacy continues to shape conversations about justice, family, and resilience.  #DanMarkel #TrueCrime #STS #JoelWaldman #AdelsonCase #JusticeForDanMarkel #DonnaAdelson #CharlieAdelson #FSU #Tallahassee Thanks for supporting the show and being a part of #STSNation!  Donate to STS' Trial Travel: Https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GJ... VENMO: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast Check out STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Email: SurvivingTheSurvivor@gmail.com Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 5m

  8. 12/22/2025

    Opening Statements Finally Start After Non-Stop Drama & a Murder-for-Hire Plot Behind Bars

    The shocking case of Colorado dentist James Craig has left the nation stunned, as he stands accused of fatally poisoning his wife in a case of betrayal, lies, and murder. This heartbreaking and drama-filled story reveals the dark secrets behind a seemingly perfect marriage...that wasn't so perfect. Today is day 1 of trial and as both the state and defense begin their opening statements we learn more about the accused killer James Craig and his wife, Angela.  Welcome to Surviving the Survivor, the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #truecrime. In this episode STS host Emmy award-winning journalist Joel Waldman is joined by #BestGuests as they dive into today's Opening Statements and the motives discussed in the trial of Dentist James Craig.  Aurora, Colorado dentist James Craig is at the center of a chilling true crime case after being accused of poisoning his wife, Angela Craig, with cyanide-laced protein shakes in a calculated act of murder. Angela was a mother of six. Prosecutors allege that behind his clean-cut image, Craig was leading a double life filled with infidelity, financial troubles, and a sinister plan to eliminate his wife. As the murder trial unfolds, disturbing new allegations have surfaced—including a murder-for-hire plot Craig reportedly attempted while behind bars. In a dramatic twist, multiple attorneys have withdrawn from his case just days before trial was set to begin--raising questions about the defense’s stability and Craig’s mounting legal troubles. All Things STS: Https://linktr.ee/stspodcast Get Joel's Book: Https://amzn.to/48GwbLx STS Merch: Https://www.bonfire.com/store/sts-store/ Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SurvivingTheSurvivor Catch us live on YouTube: Surviving The Survivor: #BestGuests in True Crime - YouTube Venmo Donations: @STSPodcast or Https://www.venmo.com/stspodcast #JamesCraig #TrueCrime #PoisonMurder #CrimeDocumentary #ColoradoDentist #AngelaCraig #MurderTrial#PoisonPlot #CrimeNews #MurderForHire #CourtDrama #YouTubeTrueCrime #murdermystery #criminaljustice#justiceforAngela Surviving the Survivor is the show that brings you the #BestGuests in all of #TrueCrime and is hosted by Emmy Award-Winning Host Joel Waldman. STS covers the biggest trending true crime cases along with breaking news. You can also find us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingTheSurvivor Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 25m
See All (36)

About

Unravel one of the most shocking murder-for-hire cases in American legal history — the 2014 killing of Florida State University law professor Dan Markel. This investigative episode from STS Files dives deep into the twisted web of family conflict, betrayal, and conspiracy that led to his assassination. Through exclusive updates, court testimony breakdowns, and insider analysis, we explore how Charlie Adelson, Katherine Magbanua, and Sigfredo Garcia became central figures in a plot that stunned the nation. From undercover recordings to trial revelations and the pursuit of justice, this is the definitive look into the case that continues to grip true crime followers worldwide.

Information

You Might Also Like