Alex Murdaugh’s Lawyers Demand Key Evidence Release

Attorneys for Alex Murdaugh have filed a motion requesting that South Carolina prosecutors hand over vital forensic evidence. Among the evidence sought is unidentified male DNA found under Maggie Murdaugh’s fingernails. The defense argues that the state crime lab has not fully tested this DNA.

The 93-page filing also seeks additional DNA and ballistics evidence, as well as raw data from a laser scan of the crime scene in Colleton County, South Carolina. The defense accuses the state of delaying tactics that could affect trial preparation.

Every week the State withholds this material is a week taken from the preparation of the defense. If the delay continues, the defense may be forced to seek a continuance that Mr. Murdaugh does not want and that the Court has said it will not grant.

Previously, the defense requested DNA evidence from under Maggie Murdaugh’s fingernails to be tested by Othram, Inc. Othram’s test indicated the need for further analysis to identify a male DNA profile that the defense claims was overlooked by the state lab. The defense also asserts that a partial DNA profile from Maggie Murdaugh’s phone should undergo more testing.

Defense lawyers have asked for details of all shootings in nearby counties where .300 Blackout cases or projectiles were recovered. Additionally, they require raw data from a 3D laser scan taken by SLED, arguing that the initial read-only file was insufficient for reconstructing the crime scene.

The defense criticizes prosecutors for their inconsistent stance on the murder weapon. Initially, the state described the .300 Blackout rifle as uncommon, suggesting it belonged to the Murdaughs. Now, it regards the cartridge as widely used.

The State has had continuous and exclusive custody of every item of physical evidence in this case for more than five years…

Joshua Ritter, a former prosecutor, warns that Murdaugh’s request for more DNA testing could be risky. He suggests it might be strategic for the defense to use the untested DNA to highlight prosecutorial oversights.

Alex Murdaugh was convicted in 2023 of murdering his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, but the South Carolina Supreme Court overturned the conviction due to jury tampering. A retrial is scheduled for April 5, 2027.