Estranged husband hired hitman to kill wealthy NYC art dealer

In January 2024, Brent Sikkema, a prominent New York City art dealer, was brutally stabbed to death in his townhouse in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, amidst his contentious divorce from Daniel Sikkema. Federal prosecutors later indicted Daniel Sikkema, 54, for allegedly orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot that led to his estranged husband’s death. The indictment detailed that Daniel had made multiple payments to the accused killer, Alejandro Triana Trevez, who had previously been employed as Brent's bodyguard. Authorities claim that the murder was planned during divorce proceedings and that Daniel Sikkema attempted to conceal his involvement by using a stolen identity to make payments to Trevez and his partner in Cuba between mid-2023 and January 2024. After the killing, Trevez was arrested by Brazilian authorities. Reports indicate he was found nearby, resting at a gas station after fleeing the scene, suggesting the plot was carefully orchestrated. In addition to murder-for-hire charges, Daniel Sikkema faces charges for conspiracy to commit murder and passport fraud. His legal team has maintained his innocence, expressing confidence that he will be vindicated in court. If convicted of the murder-for-hire conspiracy resulting in death, he could face life in prison or potentially the death penalty. Brent Sikkema was well known for his artistic influence in New York’s contemporary art scene and co-owned an established gallery that showcased international artists. The tragic circumstances surrounding Brent’s death have drawn attention not only due to his high-profile status in the art world but also because of the alleged cold-blooded nature of the crime. Legal proceedings are expected to follow soon, which will shed more light on the dynamics of the Sikkema couple’s strained relationship, the legal implications, and the broader impact this case may have within the contemporary art community.