South Carolina prosecutors have opposed Alex Murdaugh’s request for independent DNA testing of evidence from his wife Maggie Murdaugh’s fingernails, as well as his request to review case materials electronically while in prison. The defense seeks to analyze the DNA using advanced forensic genetic genealogy technology, arguing it could identify an unknown male contributor not related to Murdaugh. Prosecutors argue the evidence has already been tested and lacks sufficient data for further analysis.
The dispute arises as Murdaugh prepares for a retrial after the South Carolina Supreme Court overturned his 2023 murder convictions due to jury misconduct. The defense claims the unknown DNA profile was not fully explored by state investigators, while prosecutors maintain the sample is too incomplete for meaningful testing. The retrial is tentatively scheduled for April 2027.