South Carolina prosecutors may seek the death penalty against Alex Murdaugh in his upcoming retrial, according to a statement from Republican Attorney General Alan Wilson on Friday.
The development follows a Wednesday ruling by the South Carolina Supreme Court, which overturned Murdaugh’s convictions for the murders of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul.
The high court’s decision effectively resets the legal proceedings for the high-profile case, which has drawn intense national media attention, books, and documentaries.
“In light of the Supreme Court’s decision, we’re back to square one on this case, and that means all our legal options are on the table, including the death penalty,” Wilson said.
READ: South Carolina High Court Tosses Murdaugh Murder Convictions Over Jury Tampering
The Supreme Court vacated the original convictions after determining that Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill made improper comments to the jury. According to court findings, Hill told jurors to “watch his body language” and made other remarks that potentially influenced the guilty verdicts.
Despite the overturned murder convictions, Murdaugh will not be released from custody. He is currently serving time for separate convictions related to widespread financial fraud at his former law firm. Murdaugh has maintained his innocence regarding the deaths of his wife and son.
“Let me be clear — this decision does not mean Murdaugh will be released,” Wilson stated on Wednesday following the court’s ruling. “He will remain in prison for his financial crimes. No one is above the law and, as always, we will continue to fight for justice.”
Wilson’s office confirmed it will evaluate all sentencing options as they prepare to try the case a second time. No official date has been set for the new trial.
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