Judge Clifton Newman ruled that the evidence of Murdaugh’s financial crimes is germane to the murder case and therefore can be considered by the jury.
Alex Murdaugh’s alleged financial crimes will be presented to the jury at his murder trial, in a major blow to the disgraced former attorney’s case.
Judge Clifton Newman ruled on Monday that the evidence of Mr Murdaugh’s alleged financial fraud can be considered by the jury with regards to its role in establishing a motive.
Mr Murdaugh is accused of shooting dead his wife Maggie and son Paul at the kennels of the family’s vast hunting estate in Islandton, South Carolina, on 7 June 2021.
Separately, he is facing around 100 charges for stealing $8m in settlement money from clients at his law firm.
Until now, testimony about his alleged financial crimes was heard without jurors present.
Also on Monday – in the jury’s presence – the caretaker of Mr Murdaugh’s mother took the stand where she cast doubts on his alibi on the night of the murders.
Shelly Smith sobbed as she said that a “fidgety” Mr Murdaugh showed up late at his parents’ home that night and stayed for only 20 minutes. Days later, she said he told her to say he had been there for 30-40 minutes and offered to pay for her wedding.
