Convicted murderer Alex Murdaugh, a former South Carolina attorney, has pleaded guilty to 22 counts of financial fraud and money laundering in federal court. This is the first time Murdaugh has admitted to a crime since his arrest almost two years ago. Currently serving life without parole for the shooting of his wife and son, Murdaugh has consistently denied any involvement in their deaths. However, during his testimony earlier this year, he confessed to lying to investigators and acknowledged that evidence presented by the prosecution placed him at the scene of the murders.

The guilty plea in federal court is significant for Murdaugh as it likely means he will face many more years in prison, regardless of whether his murder conviction and sentence in state court are overturned on appeal. His legal team recently filed a motion seeking a new trial, citing claims of jury tampering and newly discovered evidence. Despite this, Murdaugh signed a plea agreement, indicating his intention to plead guilty to the federal charges of financial fraud and money laundering.

During the court hearing, Murdaugh expressed his desire to take responsibility for his actions and to make amends to his surviving son. He stated, "I want to take responsibility. I want my son to see me take responsibility. It's my hope that by taking responsibility that the people I've hurt can begin to heal." The sentencing for these federal charges will take place at a later date.

The federal charges against Murdaugh involve accusations of stealing millions of dollars from his clients. He admitted to stealing money meant for the care of a paralyzed man, from two sisters who lost their mother and brother in a crash, from the estate of his maid who died in a fall, and from others. Additionally, Murdaugh is still facing approximately 100 different charges in state court, including insurance fraud and running a drug and money laundering ring. His trial for these charges is scheduled for November.

The plea deal in federal court requires Murdaugh to pay back the $9 million he is accused of stealing from his clients. It also includes a requirement for him to be fully truthful and cooperative with law enforcement agencies regarding any criminal activities of which he has knowledge. If convicted on each count, Murdaugh could face a maximum of 20 to 30 years in prison for each offense.

The guilty plea brings an end to one aspect of the complicated and scandalous case that has captivated the public's attention. Murdaugh's family had a prominent legal legacy in South Carolina, but his crimes have tarnished their reputation. The case has also been the subject of a Netflix series, "Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal." As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on holding Murdaugh accountable for his actions and ensuring justice for all his alleged victims.