Murder-for-Hire Scheme: Man Indicted for Alleged Plot to Kill Estranged Husband
Indictment Details
Daniel Sikkema, a 54-year-old U.S. and Cuban citizen, faces charges in a multi-country murder-for-hire plot that resulted in the death of his estranged husband, Brent Sikkema. The indictment alleges that Daniel Sikkema hired a man to carry out the murder in Brazil, where Brent Sikkema frequently resided.
Brent Sikkema was the co-owner of the renowned Sikkema Jenkins & Co. art gallery, which was renamed Sikkema Malloy Jenkins after his untimely demise. He had amassed significant wealth and owned property in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Allegations and Evidence
The indictment charges Daniel Sikkema with the following offenses:
- Murder-for-hire conspiracy resulting in death
- Murder-for-hire resulting in death
- Conspiracy to murder and maim a person in a foreign country
- Passport fraud
Prosecutors allege that Daniel Sikkema and an unnamed co-conspirator meticulously planned and executed the murder of his husband. The indictment provides evidence of multiple communications between Daniel Sikkema and the killer, including arrangements for payment and coordination of the attack.
Killer’s Arrest and Involvement
On January 14, 2024, the killer, identified by Brazilian authorities as Alejandro Triana Prevez, entered Brent Sikkema’s townhouse in Rio de Janeiro and stabbed him multiple times. Prevez was apprehended several days later.
Gregorio Andrade, Prevez’s lawyer, previously revealed that Daniel Sikkema offered payment for the killing. The indictment corroborates this claim, stating that Daniel Sikkema arranged for a $5,000 payment through the killer’s partner.
Payment and Concealment
Prosecutors contend that Daniel Sikkema made numerous payments to Prevez and his romantic partner from mid-2023 to January 2024. To conceal the transactions, he allegedly used stolen identities and a go-between. In total, the indictment alleges that Daniel Sikkema sent or caused others to send over $10,000 to Prevez for the murder.
Daniel Sikkema’s Defense
Daniel Sikkema has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His attorney, Richard Levitt, maintains his client’s innocence and anticipates complete vindication at trial.
Potential Sentence
If convicted, Daniel Sikkema faces the mandatory sentence of life in prison or the death penalty. Prosecutors have emphasized their unwavering commitment to pursuing justice for U.S. citizens who fall victim to violence, regardless of the location of the crime.
Ongoing Investigations
The indictment does not provide details regarding the alleged co-conspirator, but it is likely that further arrests and charges could result from ongoing investigations. The authorities are determined to hold all parties responsible for the callous murder of Brent Sikkema accountable for their actions.
