Alex Murdaugh's bid to dismiss murder trial depends on DNA, stolen money and lies: attorney

Key Points:

• Alex Murdaugh is set for a pretrial hearing Friday in Lexington County ahead of his April 2027 retrial for the murders of his wife and son, with his defense seeking to dismiss charges and limit evidence.
• Murdaugh’s attorneys allege false physical evidence was presented to the grand jury, targeting testimony from a key law enforcement investigator, although a ruling on this motion is not expected immediately.
• The retrial will likely feature less financial crime evidence than the first trial, as the South Carolina Supreme Court ruled prosecutors went too far in detailing Murdaugh’s financial wrongdoing previously.
• Prosecutors aim to use Murdaugh’s prior sworn testimony from the first trial, which could be crucial if he chooses not to testify again, while the defense pushes for additional DNA testing and a venue change.
• Venue change to Charleston County is probable due to extensive publicity and jury influence concerns in Colleton County, with other disputes including evidence access, juror questionnaires, and protective orders still pending.