2 Years After Banker’s Death, Suspicions Turn To Estranged Husband [WPIX-TV, New York]

Dec. 29--NEW YORK -- As the 2-year anniversary approaches for a UBS banker found dead in her apartment, the circumstances have changed dramatically.

On December 31, 2009, in the midst of a bitter divorce, Shele Danishefsky Covlin was found slumped over in the bathtub of her apartment at 155 West 68th street. Her two children were home at the time, 5 year-old Miles and his 9 year-old sister, Anna -- who found her mother's body.

Police at the time ruled her death an accident, theorizing that she has slipped in the tub, striking her head and causing her death. Her orthodox family blocked an autopsy from being performed by the Medical Examiner's office, citing Jewish tradition. The 47 year-old woman was buried.

Sources tell Pix11 News several pieces of evidence started pointing to her estranged husband's involvement. In a relationship that soured and turned physically abusive, Shele was supporting the family, while Rob Covlin was largely unemployed. 10 years younger, Rob studied martial arts and would on several occasions berate Shele in public -- often driving their children to tears. In the months leading to her death, Shele told friends and family she feared Rob would kill her. She obtained an order of protection, although Rob moved to another apartment on the same floor, in the same building.

According to those familiar with the investigation, witnesses that regularly come into contact with Rob told police he acted suspiciously in the hours leading up to -- and following -- Shele's death. Including asking questions about people's schedules.

Three months later, on March 3, 2010, Shele's body was exhumed and the Medical Examiner performed an autopsy -- concluding the mother of two had been murdered, strangled to death. Rob Covlin, now living with his parents in Westchester County is still believed to be unemployed and won custody of the two children along with a $1.6 million dollar life insurance payout Shele had designated for their children.

On the day she was found dead, Shele had an appointment with an estate lawyer to remove Rod from her will, says her family which has filed a civil lawsuit against him.

Both children were sleeping in the apartment when Shele was murdered, her purse and iPhone were never recovered.

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