Justices Question Attorneys on Court Clerk, Financial Crimes in Murdaugh Appeal
At the South Carolina Supreme Court, justices scrutinized aspects of Alex Murdaugh’s double-murder appeal on Wednesday. They raised concerns about comments made by a county clerk and the extensive evidence regarding Murdaugh’s financial crimes. The five-member panel notably expressed skepticism towards the prosecution’s stance on these issues.
Concerns Over Improper Comments and Financial Crimes Evidence
Chief Justice John W. Kittredge voiced criticism regarding former Colleton County Clerk Becky Hill, referring to her as “rogue.” He questioned whether the prosecution’s emphasis on Murdaugh’s financial misdeeds was excessively broad. “The granular detail and the expansiveness of which everything under the sun was allowed is arguably problematic,” Kittredge remarked.
The case, which has fascinated the public and inspired various true crime media, revolves around Murdaugh’s conviction in the murders of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, at their hunting estate in June 2021. The trial lasted six weeks, featuring testimony about Murdaugh’s theft of significant amounts from his clients and law firm. Despite Murdaugh’s assertions of innocence, the jury convicted him, resulting in two life sentences. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to numerous financial crimes, currently serving concurrent sentences of 27 and 40 years.
Key Issues in the Hearing
Murdaugh’s attorneys are seeking a new trial, arguing that improper comments by Hill influenced juror perceptions. They asserted that Hill’s remarks, such as suggestions to “watch his body language,” suggested Murdaugh’s guilt. Some jurors have corroborated these comments through affidavits, though many denied hearing them.
Following a hearing in January 2024, retired Chief Justice Jean Toal ruled that while Hill’s comments were inappropriate, they did not materially impact the jury’s decision. She also found Hill lacked credibility and was drawn to celebrity through her actions. Hill faced charges of perjury and misconduct, leading to her guilty plea in December 2025 and a sentence of three years probation.
- Charge of perjury and misconduct against Becky Hill
- Guilty plea in December 2025
- Three years of probation imposed
Prosecution’s Position on Financial Crimes Evidence
The justices also explored the appropriateness of discussing Murdaugh’s financial crimes during his murder trial. The prosecution aimed to demonstrate that these financial issues motivated Murdaugh to commit the murders to avoid exposure as a fraud. Murdaugh’s defense contended this argument was logically flawed and that such evidence unfairly tarnished his character.
Prosecutor Creighton Waters defended the inclusion of this evidence, stating it was essential to understanding Murdaugh’s mindset. He explained, “You can’t truly understand the boiling point if you don’t understand the slow burn leading up to that.” However, the justices demonstrated open skepticism, with Justice George C. James questioning the logical ties between the financial issues and the homicides.
The court must now decide whether to uphold the conviction, remand the case for further proceedings, or grant a new trial. There is currently no established timeline for their ruling.
