Prosecutors in South Carolina are firmly against Alex Murdaugh’s request to relocate his trial to Charleston. They consider the defense’s stance of ‘Charleston or bust’ both logistically challenging and unnecessarily expensive.
In a recent court response, the state urged rejection of Murdaugh’s push to make Charleston the sole alternative venue. Officials argued that Charleston, while known for its industry, arts, and tourism, poses significant difficulties for handling a trial of this scale.
The trial is scheduled to commence in April 2027.
ALEX MURDAUGH MURDER SAGA LANDS RIGHT BACK WHERE IT STARTED BEFORE NEXT LOWCOUNTRY COURTROOM BATTLE
The defense seeks to move the trial to Charleston, citing its importance in media coverage and public attention. However, the prosecution listed several obstacles, highlighting that downtown traffic and parking are already problematic without the addition of the trial’s demands.
Adding to the complications, tourist season in spring, along with Masters week, could significantly inflate hotel prices. Moreover, spring storms and high tides often lead to flooding in the downtown area.
A prosecuting attorney participates in a judicial hearing scheduled for June 29, 2026, at the Marc H. Westbrook Judicial Center in Lexington. (Tracy Glantz/The State via Pool)
The defense initially sought a venue change due to widespread attention from the first trial, but the state argues that neighboring counties do not justify the request. While open to alternatives like Spartanburg, York, or Florence, prosecutors assert that media coverage alone does not entitle Murdaugh to a venue change.
This response follows a bid by Murdaugh’s defense to shift the trial to Charleston, citing extensive local publicity and concerns about court integrity in Colleton County.
State Judge Debra McCaslin will preside over a judicial hearing on June 29, 2026, at the Marc H. Westbrook Judicial Center in Lexington. (Tracy Glantz/The State via Pool)
Murdaugh is expected to attend a pretrial hearing on Friday at 10 a.m. in the Lexington County Courthouse.