Forensic Files

What's next for the Adelsons? A family murder plot in Utah. Plus, should defendants testify?

Dateline NBC

  • Sep 11, 2025
  • 26:37
  • Full Episode
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<p>After just over three hours of deliberations, a Florida jury finds Donna Adelson guilty on all counts — but could more charges be coming in the case? In Utah, a woman is charged with killing her husband. Now, she's admitted to her role in the plot — and says her mother and brother were involved, too. Updates on the Burning Man murder and the Wisconsin kayaker who faked his own death. Plus, when should a defendant take the stand in their own defense?<br /><br />Find out more about the cases covered each week here: <a href="http://www.datelinetruecrimeweekly.com/" target="_blank">www.datelinetruecrimeweekly.com</a><br /><br />To learn more about Dateline LIVE in Nashville on Sept. 28, and to get tickets, go here: <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline-event">https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline-event</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

Brief Summary

Donna Adelson is found guilty of murdering Dan Markell; updates on Burning Man murder and a kayaker who faked his death.

Key points

  • Donna Adelson's Verdict. After a dramatic trial, Donna Adelson is found guilty of first-degree murder.
  • Catherine Ristelli's Sentencing. Catherine Ristelli receives a harsh sentence for her role in her husband's murder.
  • Murder at Burning Man. A man is found dead at Burning Man, raising questions about the circumstances.
  • Deadly Engagement Podcast. Explore the murder of a grad student in North Carolina. Did a love triangle lead to murder?
  • Dateline Live Event. Join the Dateline crew in Nashville for the first-ever live event with panels and Q&As.

Tension

75/ 100High tension

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