"Judge's Ruling on Jury Tampering in Alex Murdaugh Trial"

South Carolina Judge Jean Toal denied Alex Murdaugh’s request for a new murder trial, criticizing county clerk Rebecca Hill for being "attracted by the siren call of celebrity" and allegedly making comments implying Murdaugh’s guilt to jurors. Toal found that Hill's comments did not impact the jury's verdict, and she denied the motion for a new trial. The jurors denied being influenced, except for one who felt pressure from other jurors. Hill is also the subject of two open investigations related to her alleged interactions with the jury and allegations of using her position for personal gain.