A recent court filing reveals that Alex Murdaugh, the disgraced former attorney embroiled in a series of financial crimes, failed a polygraph test administered as part of his plea agreement. This breach of the deal, which required his truthfulness, has prompted federal prosecutors to seek release from the agreement’s terms. Consequently, they aim to be relieved from their obligation to recommend a concurrent federal prison sentence with one imposed in state court for similar offenses.
The US Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina is petitioning the court to release them from the terms of the plea agreement due to Murdaugh’s failed polygraph test. Meanwhile, Murdaugh’s attorneys dispute the allegation of breaching the agreement and are opposing prosecutors’ request to seal the polygraph examination report.
Amidst these legal proceedings, Murdaugh is already serving a lengthy sentence in state court for a myriad of charges, including money laundering and forgery. Additionally, he received two consecutive life sentences for the murders of his wife and son, which state prosecutors argue were committed to divert attention from his unraveling financial schemes.
The revelation of the failed polygraph test comes just days before Murdaugh’s federal sentencing hearing. He previously pleaded guilty to numerous charges, each carrying a maximum prison term of up to 20 or 30 years. Murdaugh’s federal plea deal mandated cooperation, including submission to polygraph examinations, as part of efforts to prosecute coconspirators and recover funds for victims.
Despite these developments, Murdaugh’s attorneys are contesting the circumstances surrounding the polygraph exam, alleging misconduct by the examiner and challenging the government’s actions leading up to the test. They argue for transparency in the judicial proceedings and oppose the sealing of evidence related to the case.
The legal battle continues as both sides present their arguments before the court, with implications for Murdaugh’s sentencing and the broader investigation into financial misconduct.
