Donna Adelson Murder-for-Hire Trial! MORE Florida MAN on PWR Network!

 It's FLORIDA woMAN Friday!!!!

Donna Adelson Murder-for-Hire Trial: It’s Finally Happening Hey PWR Crew and my PWR Dragonflies 🧚‍♀️💎 — you’ve been waiting for this one, and it’s about to go down. The Donna Adelson murder-for-hire trial is finally hitting Leon County, and we’re going to be breaking it all down here on the PWR Network starting Monday, August 19, 2025. The Backstory We go back to July 18, 2014 — Florida State law professor Dan Markel was shot in his own driveway in Tallahassee after dropping his kids at daycare. He didn’t survive. The case shook the legal community, and investigators said it wasn’t random. It was a hit, fueled by an ugly divorce and custody battle with his ex-wife, Wendi Adelson. Prosecutors say Donna Adelson — Wendi’s mother — didn’t just complain about the situation. She plotted to make it go away permanently. Now, after years of twists, sealed testimony, and convictions of everyone else in the alleged conspiracy, the 75-year-old matriarch is facing her own jury. Who’s Already in Prison This case has been a revolving door of convictions before Donna ever took the stand: Charlie Adelson (her son) — convicted last year of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation. He’s serving life plus 60 years. Katherine Magbanua (Charlie’s ex-girlfriend) — sentenced to life plus 30 years. Sigfredo Garcia (one of the hitmen) — life in prison. Luis Rivera (the other hitman, Latin Kings gang member) — cut a deal, serving 19 years in exchange for testimony. With all of them locked up, the State says Donna is the last Adelson standing. Trial Details Jury selection begins: Monday, August 19, 2025, 8:30 AM in Leon County Court. Jury pool: Nearly 300 potential jurors called. Roughly 100–110 will be questioned, whittled down to 12 jurors + 3 alternates. Expected timeline: Could stretch into the week of September 8. Prosecutors say their case will take 5–7 days; defense estimates 4–6. Where Donna is now: She’s already been moved to Leon County Jail to wait for trial. Pre-Trial Drama No plea deal: Both prosecutors and the defense confirmed — nothing’s on the table. This is going to trial. Wendi Adelson subpoena: Defense is pushing for her to testify, but she’s fighting it hard. Remember, she testified in earlier trials under limited immunity. Whether she takes the stand again could be a bombshell. The prison snitch factor: A jailhouse informant claims Donna was still talking about finding ways to make things “go away” while locked up. That may come up in testimony. Why It Matters This isn’t just another family drama turned deadly. It’s a 10-year saga of privilege, power, and desperation that’s been called one of Florida’s most tangled murder-for-hire cases. And starting Monday, Donna Adelson finally faces the same system her son, his girlfriend, and the hitmen already went through. What’s Next We’ll be covering the trial daily starting Monday, August 19 right here on the PWR Network. And in the spirit of Florida woMAN Fridays that we do on the channel, you already know we’re going to highlight the bigger picture too — the women tangled in these crimes, the court drama, and the fallout that still ripples through Florida today. So buckle up, PWR Crew — this one’s about to get messy! Be sure to join us Monday HERE: https://youtube.com/live/LHCYfHSDnyE?feature=share HAVE you heard of this case? Have you been following it? Let me know in the comments xoAmy

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The Troubling Case of James Ford: Florida's First Execution of 2025 Deep Dive.

 

Florida Execution 2025: The James Ford Case—A Deep Dive into Justice, Family, and a Legacy of Violence

The tension is palpable as the clock ticks down to the execution of James Ford in Florida. On the eve of his scheduled death, the complexities of his case reveal a haunting narrative that encapsulates tragedy, familial strife, and the moral questions surrounding capital punishment. This blog post examines the numerous aspects of the James Ford case, including the chilling murders he committed, the impact on the victims' families, and the ongoing legal battles.

The Gruesome Murders of Greg and Kim Melner

The Crime Scene

On April 6, 1997, the lives of Greg and Kim Melner were brutally cut short in a horrific act of violence that left their 23-month-old daughter, Miranda, as the sole survivor. The couple went fishing with James Ford, their co-worker, but never returned. Their bodies were discovered the following day, showing clear signs of violence, including gunshot wounds and evidence of sexual abuse.

The Evidence

Extensive forensic evidence linked Ford to the crime. Witnesses reported seeing him with blood on his clothes and hands shortly after the murders. DNA testing confirmed that Ford's genetic material was found on Kim Melner, along with other incriminating evidence, including his own firearm. All these factors weighed heavily during the trial.

The Trial and Conviction

In 1999, Ford was convicted on multiple counts, including first-degree murder and sexual battery. The jury's decision was nearly unanimous in recommending the death penalty, a choice that was handed down as justice for the Melners.

James Ford's Troubled Life and Family Dynamics

Childhood and Early Life

James Ford's early experiences and troubled upbringing may shed light on his violent behavior. Described as mentally delayed at times, he struggled with alcoholism following the death of his father, which deeply affected him.

Mental Health

Throughout the legal proceedings, Ford's mental state frequently came under scrutiny. His defense argued that his developmental issues should exempt him from the death penalty, claiming he was unable to understand the severity of his actions.

Family Reactions

Ford's family is divided regarding his guilt. While some believe he committed the murders, others have doubts and point to unresolved family conflicts that complicate the narrative. This division has added another layer of pain to an already heart-wrenching situation.

The Disappearance of Kelly Joe Crumb and her Daughter Kelsey

The Missing Persons Case

In 1994, Kelly Joe Crumb and her infant daughter, Kelsey, vanished under mysterious circumstances. Kelly’s disappearance remains unsolved, though Ford was the last person known to have seen them alive.

Suspicion and Investigation

Law enforcement has long harbored suspicions towards Ford in connection with this case as well. However, no concrete evidence has surfaced to charge him for their disappearance.

Family's Perspective

Ford's relatives express concern that he could be linked to multiple cases of violence within the family. Their desire for answers adds to the ongoing tragedy.

The Legal Battle and Arguments Against the Death Penalty

The Defense's Arguments

Ford's legal team has argued passionately against his execution, citing his mental health issues and claiming the death penalty is not a just punishment in his case. They contend that the focus should remain on the victims rather than solely the accused.

The Prosecution's Case

Conversely, the prosecution presents a strong case for Ford's execution, painting him as a remorseless killer whose actions demand the ultimate punishment. They argue that his crimes were particularly atrocious and warrant capital punishment.

The Role of the Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty

An activist group, the Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, has raised awareness about the moral implications of executing someone like Ford. Their efforts focus on the long-term effects that such actions have on society and the families left in turmoil.

The Victims' Stories and the Impact on Their Families

Greg and Kim Melner

Greg and Kim Melner were not just victims; they were loving parents with dreams for their family. Their brutal murder has left a painful legacy, especially for their surviving daughter, Miranda.

Miranda Melner

Miranda, who survived the horrific event, carries the emotional scars of a traumatic childhood that forever changed her life. Her path to healing remains a challenging journey.

The Ongoing Grief

The emotional toll of this crime continues to ripple through both the Melner and Ford families. The stories of those affected by the violence still resonate, emphasizing the lasting impact of such tragedies.

Conclusion

As we await the execution of James Ford, we reflect on the intricate layers of this case—from the brutal crimes committed against Greg and Kim Melner to the complex family dynamics and ongoing legal debates surrounding capital punishment. The death penalty remains a contentious issue, and this case highlights its far-reaching implications.

In a world driven by justice, we must remember the victims and the families left behind. The tragic events surrounding James Ford's actions raise essential questions about justice, morality, and the true cost of violence. As we contemplate the future, the legacies of all involved continue to shape discussions around justice and humanity.