Alex Murdaugh convicted in double murder of his wife and son

After only 3 hours of deliberations, a jury in South Carolina found former attorney Alex Murdaugh, 54, guilty of murdering his wife and son on 7 June 2021.

Murdaugh was convicted on four charges: the murder of Maggie Murdaugh and the murder of Paul Murdaugh along with two lesser charges of possession of a firearm during a crime.

Murdaugh now faces 30 years to life in prison without parole for each murder charge.  Sentencing is expected to take place on Friday.  Murdaugh will also face a trial for his financial crimes at a later date.

Investigators have alleged that Murdaugh stole millions from clients and colleagues, including $3.7m (£3m) in 2019 alone.

Murdaugh showed no emotion as the verdict was passed.

“The evidence of guilt is overwhelming,” South Carolina Circuit Court Judge Clifton Newman.  Newman rejected the defense team’s request for a mistrial.

South Carolina prosecutor, Attorney General Alan Wilson, said: “Today’s verdict proves that no-one, no matter who you are in society, is above the law.”

Following the verdict, officers escorted a handcuffed Murdaugh, where dozens of spectators were in attendance, into a black van.

Reporters shouted questions at Murdaugh and one man said he would pray for him.  Murdaugh remained silent and did not respond to any questions or comments.

Murdaugh consistently denied his guilt during the trial.

“I would never hurt Maggie, and I would never hurt Paul – ever – under any circumstances,” Murdaugh testified.