Disgraced South Carolina lawyer Alex Murdaugh, who has already served two life sentences without parole for the murders of his wife and son, was sentenced Tuesday to an additional 27 years in state prison for financial crimes.
Murdaugh pleaded guilty earlier this month to 22 counts of financial fraud, including money laundering, breach of trust and tax evasion.
The charges allege that he accepted millions of dollars from law firms and clients to fund his lavish lifestyle.
“Alex Murdaugh’s illegal activities are complete,” said District Attorney Clayton Waters.”He used that trust to embezzle millions of dollars from his clients and law firm, thereby causing significant financial harm.”This South Carolina sentence, the longest for a white-collar crime, allows parole eligibility after 23 years served.”
“This sentence is a just punishment for Alex Murdaugh’s crimes,” said Attorney General Alan Wilson.”He has shown no remorse for his actions and deserves to spend the rest of his life in prison.”
Murdaugh’s financial crimes surfaced when he was arrested for the murders of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, in June 2021. In September 2022, he was convicted and received two life sentences without parole for the murders.
Murdaugh’s downfall was breathtaking.He was once a prominent member of the South Carolina bar and well-respected in his hometown of Hampton.However, his economic crimes and the murder of his wife and son tarnished his reputation and led to him spending the rest of his life in prison.
Alex Murdaugh’s conviction is a reminder that no one is above the law, even a respected lawyer from a prominent family.Murdaugh’s crimes are serious and should be punished accordingly.
