The Florida Dental Matriarch’s Attempt to Flee to Vietnam
The Florida dental matriarch, Donna Adelson, accused of orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot in 2014 against her former son-in-law, revealed in court that she and her husband had planned to flee the US to find “peace” in Vietnam before turning themselves in willingly.
Donna Adelson, clad in a purple jumpsuit and shackles, made this startling admission as she sought release from jail during her appearance in Leon County court.
Adelson, 75, and her husband, Harvey, were arrested at Miami International Airport in November 2023 while attempting to board a flight to Vietnam via Dubai, countries without extradition treaties with the US.
Despite knowing the implications of fleeing, the couple chose Vietnam as their destination due to their previous positive experiences in the country and the possibility of returning on their own terms.
Donna Adelson expressed her belief that going to Vietnam would prevent them from being held in a foreign prison while awaiting extradition back to Florida. She referred to Vietnam as “a place of peace” that her husband suggested for their escape plan.
Donna Adelson faced charges of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation in connection with the death of Dan Markel, a Florida State University law professor killed in 2014 in a contentious custody battle with her daughter.
Her son, Dr. Charlie Adelson, was later convicted of first-degree murder for hiring the assassins who carried out the hit on Markel. The convoluted plot involved other individuals linked to the Adelson family and resulted in multiple convictions.
Despite their intentions to flee, Donna Adelson claimed she contacted her lawyers, who informed her that there were no pending charges or warrants against them at the time.
The Adelsons were allegedly warned about the risks of arrest at the airport but proceeded with their travel plans, believing they had legal clearance to leave the country.
