Why Was The Murdaugh Trial Juror Removed?

Publish date: 2024-05-08

This came following five previous jurors being removed over the six-week trial, and the presence of just one alternate left. Although Judge Clifton Newman said he did not believe this last juror had intentionally violated his order that the jury should not discuss the case with others, it was clear that the situation needed to be managed promptly and appropriately. 

Eventually, after three hours of deliberation, Murdaugh was found guilty of murdering his wife and son. This outcome serves to remind citizens of the justice system’s commitment to ensuring cases are weighed properly and fairness is maintained throughout – no matter how challenging the circumstances might be.

Despite only the judge finding that the conversations occurred, he had no choice but to dismiss the juror, who could have put the proceedings at risk. 

It was reported that Alfredo Murdaugh, 54, faces 30 years to life in prison for allegedly shooting his son Paul twice with a shotgun and his wife Maggie four or five times with a rifle outside dog kennels on their Colleton County property on June 7 2021. 

To prevent any tampering with evidence presented during trial, it was clear Judge Newman left no stone unturned while questioning those who were present when this irregular interaction between juror and parties involved occurred. 

All parties seem to agree that regardless of length, any conversation involving evidence must be taken seriously in order to properly ensure justice is served in each case.

Judge Newman recused a juror on the Kenan Gay murder trial due to their encounters with people not on the jury, expressing his dissatisfaction with the handling of said juror matter by the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division agents that were tied to the case. 

Defense attorney Dick Harpootlian followed up by stating how he agreed with Newman’s decision, but that this was an example of poor investigation and handling on the part of the law enforcement agents. This incident has compounded what is already a difficult case for both prosecution and defense teams alike, leaving everybody in question as to if justice will be served.

Despite having what was effectively a pleasant conversation with the juror on Thursday, Newman expressed his unhappiness with how state agents handled the juror matter. 

This exchange came after the jury of 12 men and women from Colleton County had visited the crime scene and were beginning to prepare for closing arguments. With deliberations set to continue throughout the weekend if necessary and an upcoming trial on financial crimes still looming, his dismay is understandable. 

That being said, it’s clear that regardless of the results of this jury’s deliberation, Murdaugh has a lot yet to face.

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