Processes
US criminal case: Murdaugh sentenced to further prison
The double murder trial against Alex Murdaugh caused a stir in the USA. photo
© Joshua Boucher/The State Pool via AP/dpa
The Alex Murdaugh case has captivated many people in the USA. Ultimately, the former lawyer was convicted of double murder. But the story doesn’t end there.
The 55-year-old Murdaugh appeared in court in Beaufort County, South Carolina, wearing orange prison uniform. He had previously pleaded guilty to offenses including money laundering and fraud. The former lawyer is already serving a life sentence for double murder.
The process caused a stir
The double murder trial against Murdaugh caused a stir in the USA at the beginning of this year – the proceedings were sometimes broadcast on television for hours. Murdaugh’s wife (52) and their son (22) were found dead on the family’s property in June 2021. On the witness stand, the former lawyer repeatedly burst into tears and protested his innocence. But he admitted that he had lied repeatedly. Ultimately, the jury found Murdaugh guilty of double murder – he was sentenced to life in prison.
Prosecutors accused Murdaugh of hoping for sympathy over his family’s death. He also wanted to gain time to cover up financial crimes. The guilty plea in the current case was part of a so-called plea deal, i.e. an agreement with the public prosecutor. This prevented another long process.
The victims of Murdaugh’s financial crimes also spoke in the courtroom on Tuesday. “You lied, you cheated, you stole,” said the son of Murdaugh’s deceased housekeeper. Murdaugh burst into tears again in the courtroom and apologized to his family.