Egg Juror Seeks Release of Sealed Records in Murdaugh Trial

A juror, once involved in Alex Murdaugh’s high-profile double-murder trial, is pushing South Carolina officials to disclose sealed records tied to allegations of jury tampering. The juror, Myra Crosby, known as the “egg juror,” was removed from the trial before deliberations. She now requests the South Carolina Supreme Court to lift protective orders on these records.

The May 18 motion argues for transparency, stating that public interest and justice demand it. The records involve former Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca “Becky” Hill. Prosecutors admitted a jury-tampering probe is concluded.

The public interest and the ends of justice are best served by transparency.

During a plea hearing, 11th Circuit Solicitor Rick Hubbard mentioned the lack of substantial evidence to charge Hill with jury tampering.

Crosby earned her nickname after asking a judge if she could retrieve her eggs and purse, creating a light-hearted moment in court. Her filing notes that the investigators have concluded their inquiries, making secrecy unnecessary.

Her attorney, Joseph McCullough, made several Freedom of Information Act requests, seeking a complete investigative file on Hill’s influence over the jurors. SLED has declined to release the records due to a Supreme Court protective order.

In January 2024, the court issued an order emphasizing public access and transparency but justified confidentiality to safeguard ongoing investigations tied to Murdaugh’s new trial efforts. Crosby contends these investigations are no longer active.

Simultaneously, Murdaugh’s defense team, led by attorney Dick Harpootlian, is working to gain access to the same materials for ongoing litigation against Hill. Harpootlian highlights differences between their request and Crosby’s, noting their pursuit of active civil litigation.

The defense alleges Crosby’s removal was instrumental in Hill’s attempt to influence a guilty verdict. Crosby’s dismissal is linked to a broader narrative of jury manipulation.

Throughout the proceedings, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has been pivotal in maintaining the integrity of the trial, addressing the media following Murdaugh’s conviction.