Alex Murdaugh appeal challenging murder convictions faces state pushback over jury influence claims

The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office has officially submitted its response to Alex Murdaugh’s appeal challenging his convictions for the murders of his wife and son.

In a 182-page brief filed before the Aug. 8 deadline, Attorney General Alan Wilson’s office challenges Murdaugh’s December appeal, which claims that Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill influenced jurors to boost sales of her forthcoming book.

The filing is the State’s first full rebuttal to Murdaugh’s bid for a new trial.

In the filing, prosecutors argued that the jury found Murdaugh guilty based on the “overwhelming” evidence, not because of Hill’s brief or her comments about his testimony. 

Alex Murdaugh cries while testifying

Alex Murdaugh cries while taking the stand at double murder trial. (POOL)

The disgraced attorney was convicted in March 2023 for the murders of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, who were fatally shot on June 7, 2021, at the family’s hunting property in Colleton County. He was also found guilty on two weapons charges related to the killings.

Murdaugh’s team has 30 days to respond to the attorney general’s brief. Once both sides complete their filings, the state Supreme Court will set oral arguments, likely later this fall, with a decision expected next spring.

Murdaugh, 56, who continues to maintain his innocence, is serving two consecutive life terms in state prison.

Fox News Digital reached out to Wilson’s office, but did not receive a response. 

Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com

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