Alex Murdaugh’s attorneys have filed a motion requesting South Carolina prosecutors provide critical forensic evidence for his upcoming retrial. The evidence in question includes DNA found under Maggie Murdaugh’s fingernails, reportedly identified but not fully tested by the state crime lab.
The defense submitted a 93-page filing on Friday seeking additional DNA and ballistics evidence. They also requested raw data from a laser scan of the crime scene in Colleton County, South Carolina. According to Murdaugh’s attorneys, delays in evidence handover might impact trial preparations.
“Every week the State withholds this material is a week taken from the preparation of the defense,” stated the motion.
Murdaugh’s defense team previously asked for DNA evidence from Maggie Murdaugh’s fingernails to be released to Othram, Inc. Othram tested the DNA, but Murdaugh’s attorneys argued further testing was needed to extract a male DNA profile. They also argued that DNA from Maggie Murdaugh’s phone should undergo additional testing.
The defense has requested a list detailing shootings in nearby counties with recovered .300 Blackout cases or projectiles. They also want raw data from a 3D laser scan conducted by SLED. Prosecutors provided a read-only viewer file in 2022, but the defense insists raw data is necessary for reconstructing the scene.
There have been changes in the state’s stance on the murder weapon. Initially, prosecutors described the family’s .300 Blackout rifle as uncommon at Murdaugh’s 2023 trial. Now, it is referred to as a popular AR cartridge. The defense motion highlights discrepancies regarding evidence custody over the past five years. They argue that the state has controlled testing and evidence engagement without defense involvement.
Joshua Ritter, former prosecutor and Fox News Contributor, voiced skepticism about the defense’s push for additional DNA testing, labeling it a “big gamble.” He suggests the state might criticize the defense for not acting on the evidence while questioning why the prosecution didn’t test it.
Murdaugh was previously convicted in 2023 for the murders of his wife and son at their Moselle property. These convictions were overturned due to jury tampering by former Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill. The retrial is scheduled for April 5, 2027.