Alex Murdaugh found guilty in 'trial of the century' with defense alleging jury tampering
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
MCCORMICK COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA: South Carolina's much-debated 'Trial of the Century' reached a shocking climax as lawyer Alex Murdaugh was pronounced guilty in the June 2021 murders of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul.
However, Murdaugh's defense has stirred controversy by alleging jury tampering involving Colleton County Court Clerk Becky Hill.
Judge denies Alex Murdaugh's bid for a new double-murder trial
Despite fervent pleas for a new murder trial, Justice Jean Toal dismissed Murdaugh's request last week, intensifying the focus on the aftermath of the sensational trial. As the legal battle continues, new insights emerge from the jurors, whose decision-making process has come under scrutiny.
In an exclusive interview on Fox Nation, 'The Fall of the House of Murdaugh,' two jurors shed light on their deliberations.
One juror emphasized the absence of external pressure, stating, "Judge Newman stated that we had until 10:00 to make a verdict. That was a time that we were given. But if we didn't, it was fine. She found a hotel. We would have to be sequestered, which made sense."
Jurors insight on Clerk Becky Hill's influence
The jurors faced questions about Becky Hill's alleged influence, with Juror Z revealing that Hill advised them to observe Murdaugh's actions closely. Despite these claims, 11 out of the 12 jurors maintained that Hill did not impact their decisions.
One juror acknowledged hearing comments about monitoring Murdaugh's body language but affirmed that it did not sway their verdict.
"[Hill] even told us when we were in there alone and the door was locked, she told us, we don't have to do this tonight. If you're too tired, you don't have to do this tonight. We don't have to do it," another juror added.
"Even after we came to our verdict, she said, if you don't feel comfortable with your decision, we don't have to go out there. We can stay here, or we can come back in the morning until you are comfortable."