South Carolina fraudster Alex Murdaugh, who was convicted earlier this year of murdering his wife and son, has filed a motion with the South Carolina Court of Appeals demanding a new trial. The motion alleges jury tampering by the Colleton County Clerk of Court, Rebecca “Becky” Hill. According to the filing, Hill advised the jury not to believe Murdaugh’s testimony and other evidence presented by the defense, pressured them to reach a quick guilty verdict, and misrepresented critical information to the trial judge in an attempt to remove a juror she believed favored the defense. The motion cites three sworn affidavits and excerpts from Hill’s book, “Behind the Doors of Justice: The Murdaugh Murders,” as evidence.
Murdaugh’s attorneys argue that Hill tampered with the jury to secure a book deal and media appearances, betraying her oath of office for money and fame. They are asking the South Carolina US Attorney to look into possible criminal charges related to the alleged tampering. South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson stated that they are reviewing the defense’s motion and will respond through the legal process at the appropriate time.
The filing accuses Hill of three main issues related to the jury. Firstly, she allegedly discussed the case with the jury, instructing them not to be fooled by Murdaugh’s testimony. Secondly, she allegedly pressured jurors to reach a quick verdict and denied smokers smoke breaks until deliberations were complete. Lastly, she allegedly furnished false information about a juror to the judge, resulting in the juror being removed on the last day of the trial. Hill and her co-author, Neil R. Gordon, published a book about the trial last month, containing behind-the-scenes details.
Murdaugh was convicted of the June 2021 murders of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, and is currently serving two life sentences. The case gained national attention due to Murdaugh’s family background and his position as a prominent personal injury attorney. The filing by Murdaugh’s attorneys come six months after his conviction, where they filed a notice to appeal shortly after sentencing.
The motion filed by Murdaugh’s attorneys will be reviewed, and the South Carolina US Attorney may look into potential criminal charges related to the alleged jury tampering.