Title: Donna Adelson Sentenced to Life for Murder of Ex-Son-in-Law

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Donna Adelson, a prominent figure in a wealthy South Florida family, was sentenced to life in prison on Monday for her involvement in the 2014 murder-for-hire of her former son-in-law, Daniel Markel. Markel, a well-known law professor at Florida State University, was shot and killed at his home during a contentious custody battle with his ex-wife, who is Adelson's daughter.

Adelson, 75, was convicted last month of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation after a lengthy trial. The court sentenced her to life without the possibility of parole for the murder charge, along with an additional 30 years for the other two charges, to be served consecutively. She has announced plans to appeal the verdict.

During the sentencing hearing, Adelson maintained her innocence, describing her trial as a miscarriage of justice influenced by negative media coverage. "What happened to Danny is unforgivable. But I am an innocent woman convicted of this terrible crime without evidence," she stated. She added, "I’ve always respected the law. I’ve never gotten a parking ticket, but I’m going to prison for a murder I did not commit."

Circuit Judge Stephen Everett interrupted her multiple times, indicating that her comments reflected an "utter lack of remorse" for the crime. While shackled and wearing a purple jail jumpsuit, Adelson listened as the judge emphasized the clarity of the evidence against her.

The case has drawn significant public attention in Florida over the years, marked by a complex narrative involving a bitter divorce, family tensions, and custody disputes. Adelson is the fifth individual sentenced in connection with the murder plot. Her son, Charles Adelson, is currently serving a life sentence for his role in the killing.

Prosecutors portrayed Donna Adelson as a controlling matriarch with both the motive and means to orchestrate the murder of her ex-son-in-law, whom she reportedly despised. In contrast, defense attorneys argued that the prosecution lacked sufficient evidence to directly link her to the crime, instead suggesting that other family members were more involved. Wendi Adelson, another of her children, has denied any involvement and has not faced charges in the case.