Impact of Influence: The Murdaugh Family Murders and Other Cases

In this episode Impact explores the controversial dismissal of juror Myra Crosby from the high-profile Alex Murdaugh trial, shedding light on the events that led to her removal and the questions surrounding the possibility of an orchestrated plot.. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube Please support our sponsors. Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. #TrialUpdates #LegalDrama #JusticeMatters #TrueCrime #CourtroomDrama #murdaugh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover how media distortion affects public perception of justice. Rob Rosen’s insights offer a deep dive into the realities behind media narratives and their societal impact. In today’s fast-paced media landscape, discerning the truth can be a daunting task. When I spoke with Rob Rosen, an award-winning investigative journalist, he shed light on the critical issue of media distortion, particularly in high-profile crime cases. This post will explore key takeaways from our conversation, focusing on how media shapes public opinion and the importance of seeking comprehensive narratives. Rob Rosen had over 30 years of experience in journalism, having created and served as the showrunner for the investigative true crime series "Reasonable Doubt," which has helped exonerate several wrongfully convicted individuals. His latest book, "Crimes of Omission: Distorted Justice, the Media's War on Truth," delves into how media narratives can mislead the public by selectively presenting information. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. #MediaTruth #CrimesOfOmission #InvestigativeJournalism #RobRosen #TrueCrime Please support our sponsors. Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest episode, Impacty dives into the chilling tale of Donnie Ray Birchfield Jr., whose alleged decade-long captivity of four individuals in Lancaster, South Carolina, has left the community reeling. What’s even more disturbing? The connections to his family and their church, raising questions about complicity and awareness. This is more than just a true crime story; it’s a deep dive into human vulnerability, exploitation, and the shocking realities many face. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors. Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. #TrueCrime #Lancaster #ImpactOfInfluence #Podcast #HouseOfHorrors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On July 23, 2021 in a bar located in Rock Hill, South Carolina, Evan Hawthorne and Larry Vaughn, were involved in an altercation that seemed to stem from a disagreement over who had worse PTSD. The next day Hawthorne would be arrested for murdering retired Rock Hill police lieutenant Larry Vaughn. Evan Hawthorne would eventually be sentenced to life in prison. Pete Skidmore, a private investigator with over 32 years of experience in criminal investigations joined Impact to discuss some of the problems he had with the investigation and the trial. Skidmore covers the key aspects of the case, including the initial altercation, the investigation process, and the critical role of video evidence. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors. Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Years after Mallory Beach's tragic death in a boat crash, one lawsuit still lingers. It is the "Outrage" case against Parker's Corporation. Impact has done a few episodes on this case. In this episode the discussion revolves around attempts to get depositions that have been requested by both sides. Attorney, Matt Siembieda, joins Seton and Matt to discuss how depositions work and what bis going on in this case. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many cases Impact has covered have updates and listeners and they respond to listener and viewers comments on those episodes. Here are some of the things discussed in this episode. First up, Seton Tucker, Matt Harris and attorney Matt Siembieta address accusations made against Seton by a podcaster. Attorney Matt Siembieta and Impact discuss the importance of being present in the courtroom during a trial like the Murdaugh case . For journalists, understanding the dynamics of the courtroom not only enhances credibility but also enriches the narrative they share with the public. The Berach V Parker Outrage lawsuit has updates and we get insight to how a deposition works. Impact takes on listener complaints on how Impact covered the South Carolina Supreme Court arguments in Alex Murdaugh's appeal. There is an update on the Scott Spivey Case. The March 14th episode featuring an interview with FITSNews founder Will Folks was not without controversy. Those complaints are taken head on. There is more discussion about Becky Hill and jury tampering. Plus, an update involving some of the players in the Rose Petal Murder case. Attorney Matt Siembieda is a graduate of Penn school of Law and a profesor at Temple Law School. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors. Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the fall of 2015 4 people were found murdered in a mobile home. The victims, all from the same family, were stabbed to death and then shot. The scene was brutal. Amy Vilardi, a member of the same family, made the 911 call alerting authorities to the crime. No arrests were made. Almost eight years later, Amy and Ross Vilardi were arrested for the murders. February 27, 2026, Amy Vilardi was found guilty of the murders and sentenced to four consecutive life sentences. Lori Murray was her defense attorney. Lori joined Impact to discuss why she was stunned by the verdict and she broke down what she believes were flaws in the prosecution's case. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors. Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at SHOPIFY DOT COM SLASH ioi Legal defense, criminal trial, evidence analysis, jury selection, case strategy, forensic evidence, DNA, social media, legal appeal, courtroom tactics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 30, Spencer and Monique Tepe were found dead in their home. Their two young children were home but unharmed. There was no sign of a robbery or a break in. The Columbus Police Department was tight lipped and the speculation became intense. January 10, an arrest was made of Monique's ex-husband, Michael David McKee. McKee is a vascular surgeon near Chicago. Bo Barton joined Impact prior to the arrests to discuss profiling this type of case. Barton worked for years with the South Carolina Law Enforcement division in various roles including as a homicide detective. Barton became a certified profiler and at the time he was one of only 108 certified profilers on the planet. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In December of 2025, Former Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill pleaded guilty to multiple charges but avoided prison time. Becky Hill admitted to obstruction of justice, perjury, and two counts of misconduct in office. The Hill investigation was released and there are questions about the media and their relationship with Hill. In this in-depth interview, Will Folks from FITSNews discusses the controversial handling of sealed court documents, allegations of jury rigging, judicial corruption, and the broader implications for justice and media integrity in high-profile cases like the Murdaugh trial. For more from Will, FITSNews.com Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. KeywordsFITSNews, Will Folks, Murdaugh trial, sealed court documents, jury tampering, judicial corruption, media ethics, South Carolina justice, court transparency, investigative journalismKey Topics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A judge has denied Weldon Boyd’s request for “stand your ground” immunity, clearing the way for Scott Spivey’s family to move forward with a wrongful death lawsuit against Boyd, who fatally shot Spivey in 2023. To hear complete breakdown of the case check out the Impact episode from 11/06/2025. The interview with WSJ reporter Valerie Bauerlein tells the story. Attorney, Matt Siembieda joined Impact to analyze the judges ruling. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present fro the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The trial of the murder of Christina Parcell began on February 10, 2025.It concluded 2/21/2025 with Zachary Hughes being sentenced to life for the murder of Parcell. www.Fitsnews.com⁠⁠ dubbed the homicide the Rose Petal Murder because rose petals were found scattered around Parcell’s body. This episode features a detailed discussion on the murder case, legal strategies, and the intricacies of criminal law, including concepts like malice, evidence admissibility, and appeal processes. Attorney, Matt Siembieda joined Impact to analyze the appeal of Zachary Hughes, exploring how legal procedures and evidence impact verdicts and appeals. You will hear from Hughes defense attorneys, Andy Moorman and Mark Moyer. Those clips were pulled from a previous impact episode released April 3, 2025. Listen to Impact's episodes on this case from 2025, Jan 10, 13, 21, Feb 14,17,24, March 4, 27 and April 3. This is a brief background on the case On Oct 13, 2021, 41 year old Christina Parcell was found brutally murdered in Greer, SC. Parcell had suffered 31 stab wounds and⁠ www.Fitsnews.com⁠ dubbed the homicide the Rose Petal Murder because rose petals were found scattered around Parcell’s body. When word of Christina Parcell’s murder spread, there was an outpouring of kind words about Christine. However, sometimes things are not what they seem. Shortly after her murder Parcell’s fiancé was arrested, but not on charges relating to her murder. Parcell had also been involved in a contentious custody battle with the father of her child. Eventually an arrest was made for the murder of Christine Parcell but it was not her not her fiancé or the father of her child. This horrific story involves murder and allegations of criminal sexual conduct with minors and buggery. The trial of the murder of Christina Parcell began on February 10, 2025. It concluded 2/21/2025 with Zachary Hughes being sentenced to life for the murder of Parcell. Hughes had a very unusual defense. He admitted to killing Parcell but he claimed it was to protect her daughter. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present fro the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Jenn Wood and Fits News have been covering this case in great detail and have been really digging into the large amount of documents that have been filed To see their great reporting ⁠https://www.fitsnews.com/⁠ Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Attorney, Matt Siembieda, joins Seton and Matt to delve into the oral argumenst of Alex Murdaugh's appeal before the South Carolina Supreme Court. They discuss the dynamics of judicial questioning, the significance of the egg juror's testimony, and the implications of financial evidence presented during the trial. The conversation highlights the credibility of witnesses, the strategies employed by both the state and defense, and predictions regarding the potential for a new trial. Matt Siembieda is an attorney and law professor at Temple Law School. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oral arguments on Alex Murdaugh's appeal are set for February 11, 2026. Seton and Matt bring back interviews with key players from the Alex Murdaugh double murder trial. A legal saga that has captured national attention. This Impact episode provides listeners with a unique glimpse into the complexities of the legal battle, featuring insights from both the prosecution and defense. You will hear from South Carolina solicitor, Creighton Waters, and Murdaugh's defense attorneys, Jim Griffin and Dick Harpootlian. You can lsten to the full inetrviews in the following episodes March 20, 2023 epsidoe: Creighton Waters Got Murder Conviction But Says He Still Has More Work To Do March 23, 2023 episode: Alex's Attorney, Jim Griffin & Legal Analyst, Sara Azari Speak Out May 12, 2025 episode: Dick Harpootlian Talks About Alex Murdaugh's Chances for New Trial & His New Pee Wee Gaskins Book Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns Murdaugh case, true crime podcast, legal system, fair trial, defense attorney, financial crimes Tags: Murdoch case, legal insights, true crime, courtroom drama, defense attorneys, prosecution, financial crimes, public opinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oral arguments on Alex Murdaugh's appeal are set for February 11, 2026. = In the latest podcast episode, we dive deep into the complexities surrounding the Alex Murdaugh appeal, featuring insights from author Blanca Simpson and legal expert Joe McCulloch. Their perspectives shed light on the emotional toll of the trial and the intricacies of the appeals process. In the podcast, Blanca Simpson reflects on the emotional burden she carries as she contemplates the possibility of a retrial for Alex Murdaugh. Attorney, Joe McCulloch breaks down what might happen in front of the SC Supreme Court., stating, "The 11th is not a retrial. It is an appeals process in front of the South Carolina Supreme Court." This distinction is crucial as it highlights the technical nature of the proceedings, focusing on legal arguments rather than rehashing the trial itself. We discuss with Joe what the possible outcomes might be. This episode highlights the emotional and legal intricacies of the Alex Murdaugh case, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the stakes involved. Blanca's heartfelt reflections remind us of the human impact behind legal proceedings, while Joe's legal expertise clarifies the nuances of the appeals process. As the case progresses, staying informed and understanding the legal landscape will be crucial for all those following this high-profile story. Blanca's book is Within The House of Murdaugh Amid A unique Friendship Blanca and Maggie Plus check out the Within the House of Murdaugh FB page. https://withinhouseofmurdaugh.com/ Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns Tags: Alex Murdoch, Murdoch case, legal insights, appeals process, Blanca Simpson, Joe McCulloch, emotional impact, true crime, podcast discussion, jury tampering Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Impact updates you on two cases in this episode. First an update on Alex Murdaugh's appeal. Oral arguments are scheduled for February 11th, when the South Carolina Supreme Court will hear Murdaugh's appeal against his murder charges. Impact discusses the parameters for the Court set up for arguments. Next an update on the Tepe murders. Dec 30, Spencer and Monique Tepe were found dead in their home. Their two young children were home but unharmed. There was no sign of a robbery or a break in. The Columbus Police Department was tight lipped and the speculation became intense. January 10, an arrest was made of Monique's ex-husband, Michael David McKee. McKee is a vascular surgeon near Chicago. Bo Barton joined Impact to discuss how these types of investigations work. Barton worked for years with the South Carolina Law Enforcement division in various roles including as a homicide detective. Barton became a certified profiler and at the time he was one of only 108 certified profilers on the planet. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, attorney and law professor, Matt Siembieda, joins Impact to delve into the ongoing legal saga surrounding Alec Murdaugh, particularly focusing on the implications of a recent motion to supplement the record in his appeal. They discuss the upcoming oral arguments scheduled for February 11th, where the South Carolina Supreme Court will hear Murdaugh's appeal against his murder charges. The conversation highlights the procedural aspects of the case, including the significance of credibility issues surrounding key witnesses, particularly Becky Hill, who pled guilty to perjury. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Six years after Mallory Beach's tragic death in a boat crash, one lawsuit still lingers. It is the "Outrage" case against Parker's Corporation. Impact has done a few episodes on this case. In this episode the discussion revolves around a confidentiality order and a request for a gag order. In addition, a letter was released indicating how contentious this suit has become, with one podcaster mocking an involved party's "man parts" . Plus, texts reveal malicious comments made about a podcaster and an attempt to spread misinformation about that podcaster and her podcast. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The defamation lawsuit filed by Buster Murdaugh in the South Carolina Supreme Court involves Netflix/Cinemark, Michael Dewitt and The USA Today Company is moving along. You will hear parts of the Netflix documentary, Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal that Buster Murdaugh believes caused the defamation to his name. A lot of Impact listeners have thoughts on the lawsuit and you will hear some of them. Matt Siembieda, an attorney and law professor at Temple Law School, joins Impact to discuss defamation law. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Refresh your winter wardrobe with Quince. . Go to Quince dot com slash IMPACT for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. That's Q-U-I-N-C-Edot com slash IMPACT. Free shipping and 365-day returns. Quince dot com slash IMPACT. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

December 8, former Colleton County Clerk of Court, Becky Hill, pled guilty to four charges but not to jury tampering. Attorney, Joe McCulloch joined Impact to give his reaction to the non guilty verdict. McCulloch has represented clients in front of the SC Supreme Court so he is qualified to give us insight into how the Alex Murdaugh appeal might look in front of the South Carolina Supreme Court. McCulloch represents two of the jurors from the Murdaugh double murder trial and he has intimate knowledge on what they have told investigators. To contact Joe Mculloch http://www.mccullochlaw.com Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Refresh your winter wardrobe with Quince. . Go to Quince dot com slash IMPACT for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. That's Q-U-I-N-C-Edot com slash IMPACT. Free shipping and 365-day returns. Quince dot com slash IMPACT. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Six years after Mallory Beach's tragic death in a boat crash, one lawsuit still lingers. It is the "Outrage" case against Parker's Corporation. This is a follow up episode involving new text messages and more battles about leaked videos. Former USC media law professor, Jay Bender, explains South Carolina journalistic shield laws. Seton Tucker and Matt Harris began the Impact of Influence podcast shortly after the murders of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh. Now they cover true crime past and present from the southeast region of the U.S. Impact of Influence is part of the Evergreen Podcast Company. Look for Impact of Influence on Facebook and Youtube. Please support our sponsors Elevate your closet with Quince. Go to Quince dot com slash impact for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices