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The Re-Trial Of Alex Murdaugh

The South Carolina Supreme Court threw out Alex Murdaugh’s murder convictions. Unanimously. Now the most-watched criminal case in state history starts over — new judge, new jury, new rules — and this is where you follow every step of it.

From Hidden Killers host Tony Brueski, The Re-Trial of Alex Murdaugh delivers real-time legal analysis, courtroom coverage, and expert interviews as the State decides whether and how to retry the disbarred attorney for the June 2021 killings of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul. The Supreme Court didn’t just reverse the verdict — it rewrote the playbook. The financial crimes evidence that dominated the first trial has been sharply restricted. The jury tampering by former Colleton County Clerk Becky Hill, who pled guilty to perjury, has been laid bare in a devastating 27-page opinion. Everything about this case is different now.

This podcast covers what matters: pretrial motions, venue fights, evidentiary rulings, witness strategy, jury selection, and the legal collisions that will determine whether Murdaugh is convicted again or walks on the murder charges. No filler. No recycled takes. No speculation dressed up as analysis. Just the case, the law, and what it means — explained by someone who has covered every turn of this story from the beginning.

New episodes drop as developments warrant. Subscribe so you don’t miss the moment this case breaks open again.

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This publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.

Copyright: © True Crime Today

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South Carolina Supreme Court to Hear Alex Murdaugh’s Appeal Amid Jury Tampering Allegations Aug 16, 2024

Show notes

The South Carolina Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal from disgraced former attorney Alex Murdaugh, who is currently serving a life sentence without parole for the murders of his wife and son. The appeal centers on allegations of jury tampering during Murdaugh’s murder trial, where his defense claims the court clerk improperly influenced the jury.
Murdaugh, nearly three years into his sentence, is also appealing a 40-year federal prison sentence for financial crimes after pleading guilty to stealing nearly $11 million from his clients and law firm. His defense argues that the sentence, which is 10 years longer than federal guidelines recommend, is excessive and unconstitutional.
The jury tampering allegations are pivotal in Murdaugh’s state court appeal. Murdaugh’s lawyers contend that Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill improperly told jurors not to trust Murdaugh’s testimony, had private discussions with the jury foreperson, and pressured the jury to reach a quick verdict. Hill resigned amid an ethics investigation following these claims. Murdaugh’s defense argues that this misconduct influenced the jury’s decision, warranting a new trial.
Judge Jean Toal, a retired South Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice assigned to the case, emphasized that overturning a verdict on the grounds of jury tampering requires proving that a juror changed their mind due to improper influence. However, Murdaugh’s defense cites a federal standard suggesting that the potential to influence jurors should be enough to overturn the conviction.
The South Carolina Supreme Court has given Murdaugh’s legal team 30 days to submit further arguments, but no date has been set for the hearing.
In federal court, Murdaugh is challenging his 40-year sentence for financial crimes, arguing it violates his right against cruel and unusual punishment. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Richard Gergel, who rejected the 17 to 22-year range recommended by federal guidelines. Murdaugh’s defense compares his sentence to those given to high-profile defendants like crypto entrepreneur Sam Bankman-Fried and Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes, who received 25 and 11 years, respectively.
Murdaugh’s crimes involved stealing from vulnerable clients, including a quadriplegic man and children whose parents died in a car crash. Judge Gergel highlighted the severe breach of trust in sentencing Murdaugh, stating, “Those people placed all their problems and all their hopes with their lawyer.”
Federal prosecutors argue that Murdaugh waived his right to appeal by signing an agreement when he pleaded guilty, stating he would only appeal if prosecutors lied or his defense was inadequate. They also noted that it is rare for a court to overturn such a sentence, citing only one relevant case involving a life sentence for passing a $100 bad check.
The U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia, will hear Murdaugh’s appeal, with a three-judge panel randomly assigned to the case.
Murdaugh’s legal troubles began unraveling in 2021 when he was accused of murdering his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, at their home in Colleton County. Prosecutors argued that the murders were intended to gain sympathy and buy time as his financial schemes collapsed. Murdaugh, who testified in his defense, admitted to lying to police but denied committing the murders. Despite his claims, evidence, including a video recording of his voice at the crime scene minutes before the killings, played a critical role in his conviction.
Murdaugh’s family had long held significant influence in South Carolina’s legal system, with his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather serving as prosecutors in Hampton County for nearly nine decades. Murdaugh’s extensive legal battles, including these appeals, are expected to continue for years as he fights to overturn his convictions and reduce his sentences.
#AlexMurdaugh #JuryTampering #SouthCarolinaSupremeCourt #FederalAppeal #FinancialCrimes #MurderTrial #LegalAppeal
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

LISTEN To Full Alex Murdaugh Juror Testimony Stating Becky Hill DID Influence Her Verdict-Half Year Review Jul 05, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to the "Half Year Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that have dominated the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Throughout the past six months, we've followed and dissected cases such as Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt, Harmony Montgomery, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Half Year Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Ret FBI Jennifer Coffindaffer Says 10% Chance Alex Murdaugh Will Get New Trial-Half Year Review Jul 05, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to the "Half Year Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that have dominated the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Throughout the past six months, we've followed and dissected cases such as Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt, Harmony Montgomery, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Half Year Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

How Did Only One Alex Murdaugh Juror Feel Influenced By Becky Hill? -Half Year Review Jul 05, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to the "Half Year Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that have dominated the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Throughout the past six months, we've followed and dissected cases such as Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt, Harmony Montgomery, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Half Year Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Polygraph Fails and Financial Tales: The Alex Murdaugh Story-Half Year Review Jul 04, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to the "Half Year Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that have dominated the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Throughout the past six months, we've followed and dissected cases such as Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt, Harmony Montgomery, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Half Year Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Will Buster Murdaugh's Lawsuit Help Find The True Killer Of Stephen Smith? Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," guest Eric Faddis, a former felony prosecutor and defense attorney, discusses the recent lawsuit filed by Buster Murdaugh. Buster is suing Warner Media, Netflix, and others for defamatory content linking him to the murder of Stephen Smith. The investigation into Smith's death was reopened during the trial of Buster's father, Alex Murdaugh, due to undisclosed evidence. While Buster has denied any involvement in Smith's murder, public and media speculation persists. Faddis explores the motivations behind Buster's lawsuit, the potential consequences of the legal action, and the complexities of seeking justice for Stephen Smith. They discuss how the discovery process in the lawsuit might uncover new evidence, possibly exonerating Buster or pointing to alternative suspects. Faddis notes the high stakes and risks involved in pursuing such a lawsuit, including the possibility of revealing uncomfortable details about Buster and his family's dealings. The conversation underscores the broader implications of the case and the ongoing quest for truth and justice in the Stephen Smith investigation.
- Buster Murdaugh filed a lawsuit against Warner Media, Netflix, and others for defamatory content.
- Investigation into Stephen Smith's death was reopened during Alex Murdaugh's trial due to new evidence.
- Buster Murdaugh denies any involvement in Stephen Smith's murder.
- Public and media speculation continues to associate Buster with the case.
- The discovery process in the lawsuit might uncover new evidence related to Stephen Smith's death.
- Risks of the lawsuit include potential revelations about Buster and his family's activities.
- The case highlights the complexities of seeking justice for Stephen Smith and the potential impacts on Buster Murdaugh's reputation.
### Hashtags:
#BusterMurdaugh #AlexMurdaugh #StephenSmith #EricFaddis #DefamationLawsuit #JusticeForStephenSmith #TrueCrime
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Will Buster Murdaugh's Lawsuit Reveal Who Really Killed Stephen Smith? Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," defense attorney Bob Motta discusses Buster Murdaugh's lawsuit against Warner Media, Netflix, and others for accusing him of involvement in the death of Stephen Smith in their documentaries. Motta defends Buster, arguing that he's a victim of his family's dark legacy, particularly his father Alex Murdaugh's crimes. Motta finds the accusations against Buster baseless and likens them to the unfounded allegations against Victoria Heuermann. He suggests that the lawsuit could uncover more information about Stephen Smith's murder through depositions, which provide civil attorneys with greater leeway to question witnesses than criminal investigations. Motta hopes the suit will clear Buster's name and refocus the investigation on finding the true culprit.
- Buster Murdaugh is suing Warner Media, Netflix, and others for accusing him of involvement in Stephen Smith's death.
- Bob Motta argues that Buster is a victim of his father's crimes and the accusations against him are baseless.
- Motta compares the baseless accusations against Buster to those against Victoria Heuermann.
- The lawsuit might aid the investigation into Stephen Smith's murder through depositions.
- Civil attorneys have more leeway in depositions than criminal investigators.
- Motta hopes the lawsuit will clear Buster's name and help find the true culprit behind Stephen Smith's death.
### Hashtags
#BusterMurdaugh #StephenSmith #KarenRead #AlexMurdaugh #HiddenKillers #DefenseDiaries #BobMotta
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Will Buster Murdaugh Clear His Name In Battle Against Media Giants? Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

In the latest episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses Buster Murdaugh's decision to file a lawsuit against WarnerMedia, Netflix, and other entities for their portrayal of him in documentaries related to his father's crimes. Buster, son of disgraced attorney Alex Murdaugh, has been implicated in the murder of Stephen Smith without solid evidence. Scott shares her thoughts on the ethical concerns surrounding Buster's portrayal and the potential impact of the lawsuit. She emphasizes that while Buster's move might bring personal relief, it could also reignite public interest and scrutiny. The conversation touches on the possibility that the lawsuit might lead to new information about Stephen Smith's murder, hoping for justice for the real perpetrator. Scott also speculates on whether Alex Murdaugh might be influencing these decisions from prison, highlighting the ongoing intrigue surrounding the Murdaugh family saga.
**Main Points:**
- Buster Murdaugh is suing WarnerMedia, Netflix, and others for their portrayal of him in documentaries.
- Buster has been implicated in Stephen Smith's murder without substantial evidence.
- Shavaun Scott discusses the ethical concerns of Buster's portrayal and the potential impacts of the lawsuit.
- The lawsuit might bring personal relief to Buster but could also reignite public interest.
- There is hope that the lawsuit might lead to new information about Stephen Smith's murder.
- The discussion speculates on Alex Murdaugh's potential influence from prison.
- The Murdaugh family saga continues to captivate public interest.
**Hashtags:**
#HiddenKillersWithTonyBrueski #ShavaunScott #BusterMurdaugh #AlexMurdaugh #StephenSmith #WarnerMedia #Netflix
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Buster Murdaugh Files Suit In Attempt To Clear His Name Jun 27, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," retired FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke discusses the complexities surrounding the reopened investigation into Stephen Smith's death, which coincided with the high-profile trial of Alex Murdaugh. Buster Murdaugh, who denies any involvement in Smith's death, is now suing Warner Media and other outlets for defamation, claiming the accusations have tarnished his name. Dreeke highlights the concept of "lifestyle leakage," where family behaviors and values impact individuals, suggesting Buster’s actions are influenced by his father's combative nature. The lawsuit may open Pandora's box, potentially revealing more about the Murdaugh family’s dealings. Dreeke points out that while the lawsuit could tarnish Buster’s reputation further, it might also unearth new evidence in Stephen Smith’s case, ultimately aiding the pursuit of justice for his family. The media's credibility and the investigative rigor behind their claims will be crucial as this legal battle unfolds.
- Stephen Smith's case was reopened during Alex Murdaugh's trial.
- Buster Murdaugh denies involvement in Stephen Smith's death and is suing media outlets.
- Robin Dreeke discusses "lifestyle leakage" and how family behaviors influence actions.
- The lawsuit might bring more scrutiny and potentially reveal new information about the Murdaugh family.
- Media credibility and careful reporting are emphasized as critical in such cases.
- The legal battle could impact both Buster Murdaugh and the media outlets involved significantly.
- The lawsuit may help in the ongoing investigation into Stephen Smith's death, potentially offering closure for his family.
### Hashtags:
#HiddenKillers #TonyBrueski #RobinDreeke #AlexMurdaugh #BusterMurdaugh #StephenSmith #TrueCrime
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Buster Murdaugh Sues Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery Over Defamation in Stephen Smith Case Documentaries Jun 24, 2024

Show notes

Buster Murdaugh, son of convicted murderer and fraudster Alex Murdaugh, has filed a defamation lawsuit against Netflix, Warner Bros. Discovery, and several other parties. The suit, lodged in the Court of Common Pleas in Hampton County, South Carolina, claims that the documentaries "Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal," "Murdaugh Murders: A Deadly Dynasty," and "Low Country: The Murdaugh Dynasty" wrongfully implicated him in the 2015 death of 19-year-old Stephen Smith.
The lawsuit, filed last Friday, also names Gannett, the publisher of the Hampton County Guardian, the newspaper’s editor, Michael Dewitt, Jr., and the production companies behind the documentaries. Murdaugh argues that the defendants defamed him by subtly or explicitly suggesting his involvement in Smith's death.
Buster Murdaugh, who testified at his father’s trial regarding the shock of his mother, Margaret “Maggie” Murdaugh, and younger brother, Paul Murdaugh, being shot in June 2021, categorically denied any involvement in Stephen Smith’s death. "I have tried my best to ignore the vicious rumors about my involvement in Stephen Smith’s tragic death that continue to be published in the media as I grieve over the brutal murders of my mother and brother," Buster stated in 2023.
Smith, an openly gay teenager and former classmate of Murdaugh, was found dead from a blow to the forehead, which an independent autopsy confirmed was likely from a hit-and-run. Despite these findings, Murdaugh claims the documentaries falsely portrayed him as Smith’s murderer. The lawsuit highlights a particular 10-minute segment from one series that alluded to Murdaugh as the killer.
Murdaugh's complaint describes the documentaries as containing false statements that suggest he murdered Smith with a baseball bat in an anti-gay hate crime. It also disputes any romantic relationship between Murdaugh and Smith. "These statements are untrue in their entirety," the complaint reads.
Eric Bland, the attorney for Stephen Smith’s family, criticized the lawsuit, predicting it would backfire. Bland noted that the powerful entities named in the suit would likely fight vigorously and might unearth further details damaging to Murdaugh.
"Buster will have to answer questions in a multi-day deposition from every single defendant," Bland said, emphasizing the extensive questioning Murdaugh would face regarding his relationship with Smith and knowledge of his death. Bland also pointed out that Buster’s name appeared multiple times in the investigative file released by the South Carolina Highway Patrol in 2021.
Buster Murdaugh seeks to clear his name of what he calls "baseless," "false," and "defamatory" accusations while offering condolences to Smith’s family. The outcome of this high-profile legal battle remains to be seen.
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

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