Alex Murdaugh Cites Unknown Male DNA in Bid for New Testing
His lawyers say 3 court filings are needed because local ties could prevent a fair retrial, and they want independent DNA testing at his expense.
- On Tuesday, Alex Murdaugh's legal team filed three motions ahead of the upcoming retrial hearing, requesting a venue change, independent DNA testing, and secure computer access for case preparation.
- Defense attorneys argued the case is "among the most heavily publicized criminal prosecutions in the history" of South Carolina, requesting a move outside the 14th Judicial Circuit to ensure an impartial jury.
- Murdaugh's team requested independent testing of DNA found under Maggie Murdaugh's fingernails, with Othram Inc. offering to conduct a more comprehensive analysis than the state's original testing.
- Attorneys also petitioned the court to allow Murdaugh access to a secure, offline laptop for reviewing voluminous discovery materials, arguing the arrangement is more efficient than transporting banker's boxes into prison.
- These motions precede the first retrial preparation hearing scheduled for Monday in Lexington County before Circuit Court Judge Debra McCaslin, who was assigned the case by the Supreme Court.
26 Articles
26 Articles
Alex Murdaugh claims unknown male DNA was under slain wife's nails
WALTERBORO, S.C. (Court TV) — Attorneys representing disgraced attorney Alex Murdaugh have filed a flurry of motions ahead of the first court appearance in the case after his conviction was overturned. Alex Murdaugh appears in court on Jan. 29, 2024. (Tracy Glantz/The State via AP, Pool) Murdaugh, 57, had been sentenced to two life terms after a jury convicted him of murdering his wife, Maggie Murdaugh, and son, Paul Murdaugh. The South Carolina…
Alex Murdaugh seeks to be unshackled for hearings, move retrial out of Lowcountry
COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – Alex Murdaugh and his defense team filed a motion this week asking to appear in court without shackles and in civilian clothing. Murdaugh’s defense team is also asking a judge to move his retrial out of the Lowcountry. The filings come just days before Murdaugh is scheduled to appear in [...]
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 88% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
