State Challenges Alex Murdaugh’s Appeal

The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office has formally responded to Alex Murdaugh’s appeal, which contests his convictions for the murders of his wife and son. This response, detailed in a 182-page brief, was filed before the August 8 deadline. The appeal claims that Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill improperly influenced jurors to enhance sales of her upcoming book. However, Attorney General Alan Wilson’s office argues that the jury’s guilty verdict was based on “overwhelming” evidence rather than Hill’s alleged comments.

Prosecutors Defend Conviction Integrity

In their filing, prosecutors assert that Murdaugh’s conviction was not swayed by external influences but was a result of substantial evidence presented during the trial. They also argue that Murdaugh forfeited his right to contest the inclusion of financial crimes evidence by not appealing the trial court’s decision to admit it. The complexity of the case, including a 6,000-page trial transcript, necessitated an extended review period for Wilson’s team.

Defense Claims Jury Influence

Dick Harpootlian, Murdaugh’s defense attorney and former state senator, has publicly stated that Hill’s conduct compromised the trial’s fairness. He suggests that if Hill had not influenced the jury, a mistrial might have been the worst outcome. Harpootlian claims that two jurors would have voted differently without Hill’s alleged interference.

Awaiting Supreme Court Decision

Murdaugh was convicted in March 2023 for the murders of his wife Maggie and son Paul, who were shot on June 7, 2021. He is currently serving two consecutive life sentences. The defense has 30 days to respond to the attorney general’s brief. Once both sides have submitted their arguments, the state Supreme Court is expected to schedule oral arguments later this fall, with a decision anticipated next spring.