It was a sensational case and a sensational trial. Now, there is an equally sensational new chapter. Alex Murdaugh, 57, was convicted in 2023 of murdering his wife Maggie and son Paul in 2021. He pled not guilty but received two life sentences for the crimes. In a shock new move by the South Carolina Supreme Court. his conviction has just been overturned, per The Guardian.
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According to the outlet quoting from the justices' reportedly unanimous opinion, "Our justice system provides - indeed demands - that every person is entitled to a fair trial, which includes an impartial jury untainted by external forces bent on influencing the jury toward a biased verdict."
The opinion added, "Although we are aware of the time, money, and effort expended for this lengthy trial, we have no choice but to reverse the denial of Murdaugh's motion for a new trial..."[W]e are accordingly constrained to reverse the post-trial court's denial of Murdaugh's motion and remand for a new trial consistent with this opinion." The reason given for overturning the verdict in former attorney Alex Murdaugh's trial is "improper external influences on the jury."
An Ex-Court Clerk Allegedly Acted Inappropriately
Per TMZ, Becky Hill, formerly a court clerk, allegedly made negative remarks about Alex Murdaugh to jurors during his trial. Per the outlet, Hill also reportedly attempted to influence their deliberations.
Murdaugh's Attorneys Reacted to the Bombshell Development
A statement from Murdaugh's attorneys, Jim Griffin and Dick Harpootlian, was issued after the court's headline-making decision. They clearly felt that Becky Hill's supposed actions were egregious enough to warrant scuttling their client's conviction.
According to TMZ, their statement said in part, "The Supreme Court's decision today affirms that the rule of law remains strong in South Carolina. The Court found that Becky Hill's conduct during the trial attacked Alex Murdaugh's credibility and his defense. The Court rightly described her conduct as 'breathtaking,' 'disgraceful,' and 'unprecedented in South Carolina.'"
They also pointed out that they believe the jury heard an excess of information about Murdaugh's alleged financial wrongdoing. Harpootlian and Griffin wrote, "The Court held that this evidence went far beyond what was necessary and gave rise to unfair prejudice. On retrial, that will not be permitted. Alex has said from day one that he did not kill his wife and son. We look forward to a new trial conducted consistent with the Constitution and the guidance this Court has provided."
South Carolina's Attorney General Also Weighed in
According to TMZ, Alan Wilson, Attorney General of South Carolina, wrote in a statement that Alex Murdaugh will be tried for a second time "as soon as possible." However, until then, he is not going to be a free man. He'll stay behind bars "for his financial crimes."
