In a recent development surrounding the case of Alex Murdaugh, a former South Carolina attorney convicted of killing his wife and son, a judge has ruled against granting him a new murder trial. The decision comes after Murdaugh’s attorneys alleged that the court clerk tampered with the jury that convicted him nearly 11 months ago.
Judge Jean Toal, delivering the decision while Murdaugh was present in prison attire, acknowledged improper comments made by the clerk of court, Rebecca “Becky” Hill, to the jury. However, Toal ruled that these comments did not unduly influence the jury’s verdict.
Toal expressed skepticism about Hill’s credibility as a witness, noting that she appeared influenced by a desire for celebrity status and the prospect of writing a book about the trial.
In motioning for a fresh trial, Murdaugh and his attorneys also alleged Hill misrepresented information about a juror who was ultimately dismissed to the trial judge. Hill’s alleged tampering, Murdaugh’s defense team claims, was meant “to secure for herself a book deal and media appearances that would not happen in the event of a mistrial.”
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The judge emphasized that fleeting and foolish comments by a publicity-influenced clerk were insufficient grounds for a new trial in a case of such length. The decision has prompted Murdaugh’s legal team to consider the next steps in the legal process.
They anticipate moving to the Court of Appeals and potentially reaching the South Carolina Supreme Court and federal court, if necessary. Hill’s attorneys, Justin Bamberg and Will Lewis have respected the judge’s decision, agreeing that the jurors acted professionally during the lengthy and complicated trial.
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During an evidentiary hearing, jurors were questioned about Hill’s actions and influence. One juror, identified as Juror Z, testified that comments made by Hill had influenced her verdict.
She mentioned hearing the clerk advise the jury to “watch [Murdaugh’s] actions” and to “watch him closely,” which created a perception of guilt. However, other jurors denied being influenced, and Toal emphasized that one juror’s ambivalence did not undermine their oath.
The case has gained international attention, leading to numerous documentaries, books, and podcasts. Hill, co-author of a book published after the trial, participated in a Netflix docuseries about the case. Hill’s co-author has also refuted claims by Murdaugh’s attorneys that they did not have guarantees from any publisher when they set out to write the book and spent $30,000 of their own money.
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Murdaugh’s defense team alleges that a desire for a book deal and media appearances drove Hill’s actions. However, Neil R. Gordon, who had met Hill only after the trial was over, said, “The fact is, there was no book deal coming her way or our way,”
The judge’s decision marks a significant point in a case gripping public interest. While the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on the complexities surrounding the trial, allegations of jury tampering, and the pursuit of justice in the aftermath of the murders.
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