Becky Hill, a South Carolina court clerk accused of interfering with the jury in the high-profile murder trial of ex-attorney Alex Murdaugh, resigned from her position in Colleton County on Monday.
Standing before reporters outside the county courthouse in Walterboro, S.C., Hill expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Colleton County Clerk of Court. After serving in this role since her election as a Republican in 2020, she announced her decision to resign from the position.
During her speech, Hill made mention of the recent Murdaugh trial. This trial involved a prominent attorney from a politically influential family in South Carolina. The attorney was convicted and sentenced to two consecutive life terms for the murder of his wife, Margaret “Maggie” Murdaugh, aged 52, and their son, Paul Murdaugh, aged 22, who were both shot and killed in 2021.
During a hearing before retired Judge Jean Toal on January 29, Hill denied tampering with the jury. He adamantly claimed, “I did not have a conversation with any juror about any topic related to this case.” Ultimately, the judge dismissed the re-trial motion.
In January, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division confirmed that they are currently investigating two cases involving Hill. These cases include allegations of jury tampering and an investigation into whether Hill used her position for personal gain.
On Monday, Hill announced that the trial of Murdaugh had led her to deeply contemplate her choices during her tenure as clerk of court. After careful consideration, she has made the decision not to seek re-election.
“I am now able to prioritize my roles as a wife, a mother, and a grandmother to my two grand-boys. I will cherish the moments spent with the people who hold the utmost importance in my life,” she expressed.
Democratic State Rep. Justin Bamberg, Hill’s attorney, confirmed that Hill’s resignation would take immediate effect. He mentioned that a resignation letter was already en route to South Carolina Governor, Henry McMaster.
Gary Hale, the Deputy Clerk of Court, has been appointed to serve as the interim filling for the position.
