Convicted murderer Alex Murdaugh, who was recently sentenced to two life terms for the fatal shooting of his wife and son, reportedly formed a bond with a lifelong criminal during his time behind bars.
This revelation comes from a new book by bestselling true-crime author John Glatt, titled "Tangled Vines: Power, Privilege and the Murdaugh Family Murders." Glatt's book delves into the rise of the prestigious Murdaugh family and the shocking double homicide that shook the nation. When approached for comment on the book's publication, Murdaugh's attorney did not immediately respond.
The Murdaugh case has garnered significant attention, with a true-crime documentary on Netflix titled "Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal" shedding light on the family's tragic story. Glatt, in an interview with Fox News Digital, revealed that many people were hesitant to speak on the record about the Murdaughs and their circumstances.
However, Glatt managed to find some close friends of the family who were willing to open up. He spent three weeks in South Carolina, speaking to individuals and uncovering new information. Glatt, who has written 25 true-crime books, described this particular case as one of the most memorable.
The Murdaugh family, once a powerful legal dynasty in South Carolina, saw their influence come to an end when Alex Murdaugh was convicted of the murders. Prior to his arrest, Murdaugh had been charged with swindling millions of dollars from the son of Gloria Satterfield, a longtime employee of the Murdaugh family.
Glatt's book reveals that during his time in prison, Murdaugh formed a friendship with a hardened criminal who had spent most of his life behind bars. This unnamed mentor became a source of guidance for the former attorney and assistant solicitor.
According to Glatt, he listened to over 200 jailhouse calls made by Murdaugh, which were obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request. While Murdaugh didn't discuss the details of the crimes he committed, he did talk about his life in prison. Glatt noted that Murdaugh seemed to have settled into prison life, engaging in activities such as gambling on sports games with other inmates.
Murdaugh would bet items from the commissary, like candy, rather than money. Glatt also mentioned that Murdaugh expressed admiration for the hardened criminals he encountered, learning from them and gaining tips on how to survive in jail.
Glatt emphasized that Murdaugh was a master manipulator who easily assimilated into the jail system. The book reveals that Murdaugh made friends through poker and chess but remained cautious of potential informants. In one of the calls, Murdaugh described befriending an elderly inmate in a wheelchair who would run errands for him in exchange for small bribes. Glatt highlighted the resourcefulness and innovation of inmates in navigating the prison environment, noting that Murdaugh was careful not to discuss certain topics over the phone due to surveillance.
Glatt's book also sheds light on Murdaugh's financial dealings in prison. Inmates were allowed to have $60 deposited into their commissary accounts each week. Murdaugh allegedly had a family member deposit an additional $60 into another inmate's account, paying that inmate a $15 commission and keeping the extra money for himself. Glatt noted that Murdaugh never mentioned his late wife or son during the recorded calls, instead reminding his surviving son, Buster Murdaugh, to ensure there were always flowers on their graves.
The Murdaugh family, who founded a powerful law firm in Hampton County a century ago, had a long-standing presence in the legal system. However, prosecutors argued that Alex Murdaugh's financial misdeeds had pushed him to the brink of disaster, leading him to commit the murders. During his sentencing, Murdaugh maintained his innocence, claiming that he would never harm his wife or son. However, the judge suggested that Murdaugh had become a monster.
Glatt firmly believes that Murdaugh shows no remorse for his actions. He observed that during the trial, Murdaugh would theatrically wipe his eyes with a handkerchief whenever gruesome or emotional details were revealed. Glatt believes that Murdaugh was attempting to manipulate the jurors, as he had done in previous cases. Despite never admitting to the murders, Glatt is convinced that Murdaugh will never confess.
Currently, Murdaugh is incarcerated at South Carolina's McCormick Correctional Institution, residing in the protective custody wing of the maximum-security prison. This wing houses inmates who are considered potential targets, including child abusers and former law enforcement officers.
Murdaugh's attorney, Jim Griffin, stated that he interacts regularly with a small group of inmates but avoids those convicted of serious sex crimes. Inmates have access to communal areas, where they can engage in activities such as playing checkers, cards, and watching TV. They also have limited internet access through tablets provided to them.
Despite his incarceration, Murdaugh has received support from strangers who have contributed approximately $1,000 to his commissary account. He has also received over 90 letters from individuals across 28 states and several countries.
Griffin mentioned that Murdaugh remains positive and has praised the courteous and professional behavior of the guards. Murdaugh now avoids making phone calls, fearing that they will be leaked to the press. Instead, he communicates through letters with his friends and family, including his son Buster.
Glatt hopes that his book will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the Murdaugh family's story. He believes that readers will gain new insights and a three-dimensional perspective on what truly happened. Glatt reflects on the apparent closeness and love within the family, which was ultimately shattered by a hidden demon.
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