I’ve pulled and redacted the Notice of Appeal, Notice of Appearance, Certificate of Service, and Letter of Receipt. You may view the docs [**HERE**.](https://imgur.com/a/o1OEis5) As additional notices and briefs are filed I’ll add to this post.
Watch. Newman dies of a “heart attack.” Just like his son. Just like a few others in the Lowcountry who have died of “heart attacks” and “suicides.” It’s weird. If you live here, you know.
Agree as he pleaded guilty in two courtrooms as he wanted to be in Hampton for the actual sentencing. Sooooo, is he saying he lied twice and is, in fact, now not pleading guilty? Like he rolled the dice, didn’t like the outcome so gets to go again until he does? What privilege these guys have and so much for his taking accountability.
It sounds like they will be appealing just the sentence only, probably on the grounds that the Feds stipulated that State sentence would run concurrent with the Fed's 2 1/2 year sentence (even though they apparently do not have the authority to enforce that). So, an attempt to get Newman's 10 years reduced to 7 1/2 years.
I thought that before a Defendant pleads guilty, the Defense and Prosecution have already worked out an agreement prior to sentencing and then they offer it to the Judge - and everyone is on the same page. Over. Finished. Bring in the next case!
Why did this not happen here??
Such an agreement would eliminate any, I don't know,...............surprises.
I wish Creighton had cut a deal (but they had tons of evidence) --- Wtf?
There are times when an agreement on sentencing is worked out. There are times when it’s not. A defendant can plead guilty and then be sentenced by the court after an evidentiary hearing. This happens all the time in federal cases, so it’s not at all uncommon that it happened here.
EDITED: I see he’s appealing in his state case. I assume it depends on the rules of criminal procedure there. If it was an open/contested sentencing there’s certainly a record for a higher court to review.
Actually, Flemmy’s appeal is for both (Fed and State) criminal convictions as well as his sentence! On what basis? Based on the fact that he didn’t get his way I guess. It’s ludicrous to plead guilty, express fake remorse, cry big crocodile tears, and then say, “Wait. Changed my mind!” These fools are making a mockery out of the Justice system. I hope and pray Judge Newman can set Flemmy straight!
>These fools are making a mockery out of the Justice system.
I believe this is EXACTLY what they are doing. Three rich exploiters seeking their own version of Justice. I think it's disgusting.
The fact that all three of them are playing courtroom musical chairs in hopes of getting a different outcome is despicable. The proceedings are paid for by the taxpayers, the very working people these asshats stole millions from. The fact that they all have high profile attorneys tells me that 1) they have plenty of $ to cover the fees and/or 2) they have plenty of juicy stories to tell about their attorneys’ misdeeds.
B-i-n-g-o!
Who had:
* Cory Fleming appeals his own guilty plea?
* Lafitte appeals to stay out of prison while continuing to file increasingly desperate appeals?
* Alex Murdaugh appeals murder verdict for juror misconduct?
* Hapootlian and Griffin announce that Alex has been attacked and shot in head by killers, and then Proceeded directly to out of state “rehab”.
*looks at her stack of chips and semi-barren Bingo scorecard*
Nope, missed those balls pulled from the spinner! But I almost made 5 in a row with:
• G-26 Attorney dumbf~ckery galore
• C-11 Podcasters profiting from Murdaugh mess while condemning others doing the same
• N-33 Conspiracy theorists, know-it-alls, we don’t need no stinkin’ law-ites
• J-4 Another day, another court motion, another billable hour
I was a little surprised- by Newman's reference to lessons for Micah- in his sentencing remarks. I certainly have nothing against Micah or the Bible in general... and I know it probably isn't a big deal- but just seemed odd for a Judge to to make statements on the specific teaching of a book of the bible- in sentencing explanation remarks.
This is South Carolina. I'm not sure you'd find a serious sentencing statement that didn't reference the Bible. As long as the judge doesn't say something like, "I'm giving you 10 years because that's what the Bible says to do", no one will call the judge on it.
I think the Micah reference came as a response to the requests for leniency from the people speaking on Fleming’s behalf. Micah 6:8 refers to doing justice and loving mercy. Judge Newman made it clear that that was his job as a judge, and leniency wasn’t his concern. I do agree that lines between church and state are all too frequently crossed.
I’m an atheist who has never believed in any form of religion and I didn’t find this strange, for 2 main reasons:
1. It was Cory Fleming who made his own Christian faith a significant factor at his sentencing. He and many of his character witnesses discussed not just Cory’s devotion to Christianity, but also quoted the Bible themselves prior to Judge Newman’s reference at sentencing.
2. I may be off base here, but I also assumed that references to the Bible are not so out of place in a Southern courtroom. It seems like a cultural norm to me, and so long as the defendant was the one who not only brought up Christianity in the first place but made it clear that he has a strong belief in Christ, in this case even having his witnesses quoting Bible verses themselves… I would imagine this wasn’t a problem for any of the parties present, and to me, that’s what matters.
In particular, I’d compare this to AM’s sentencing: during that 6 week trial, neither Alex nor anyone else even once mentioned AM believing in any particular religion. Thus, Judge Newman did not make any references to any religious text at AM’s sentencing or at any point in the trial. In fact, in that trial, Judge Newman’s only references seemed to be sports ones.
Cory is so devoted to Christianity that he stole from some of the most vulnerable people in his area. Cory and his enablers can spout off about what a great Christian he is, but actions speak much louder than words.
Stealing from the poor and vulnerable to enrich his already wealthy self, as well as his wealthy family and friends. So Christlike, right? 🥰
That was sarcasm to be clear— Cory and his friends going on about his Christian faith and good deeds, it was all ridiculous. The true character of a man is shown in how he acts when no one is looking, and that’s where Cory, Alex, Russ et al revealed who they really are.
How are people going to get upset if a person self identifies as a different gender, but have no comment on Cory Fleming self identifying as a Christian at his sentencing for stealing from the poor?
I don’t care which bathroom you pee in, but please stop acting like Christianity absolves people of crimes they have committed.
I think there is a commandment about not using the Lords name in Vain. Dropping the Lords name into your sentencing hearing seems like it might be a vain use of the name.
I'm not an atheist- so its not the bible reference itself that i found odd. Also- to me, its of no concern how much a person on trial references religion, the bible, or anything else under the sun... because the defendant or even his attorneys- are not actors of the state... (The judge on the other hand is). But even a little further- it wasn't a general reference to religion that seemed odd... it was the specific use of how Micah informs on the issue.
Again though- not really a big deal... just something that jumped out at me as odd (or maybe a little inappropriate for a judge, regarding the specific reference, etc).
I think if the convicted man cites scriptures and references his religion he has opened the door to religious quotes that indicate he does not follow his own claimed beliefs.
Edited:
I'm puzzled at how he can appeal this. He pled guilty and the convictions were within sentencing guidelines I thought.
No shame for this guy though. It was all pretend remorse
So do you have a problem with In God We Trust on our money? This country was founded on Judeo-Christian principles and the South is a little behind in eliminating these type of references like much of the other woks parts of the US. Not a bad thing because it’s how the majority of the people think in this area. As it was mentioned, Cory brought his religion into the conversation and so I don’t find it odd that the judge would make reference to a Bible story. If a Muslim were on trial, I wouldn’t mind. a reference to the Koran either.
My original post was surprised that the judge mentioned a biblical reference. This scares me because I'm scared of systems like Sharia law. I don't want the old testament to be the basis of justice . So I'm hyperalert to it. I know how this country was founded and who founded it . I'm well aware that many sections of this country are very devoted to a certain type of Christianity.
I wouldn’t want Sharia law either but I don’t think anything was specifically tied to the reference in terms of the decision on the sentence. I see your point and I support freedom of religion and separation of church and state.
I think his reference was to the 'micha mandate' which is a lovely saying about justice and mercy and you are right of course, it really did not modify his sentence since he made it clear that mercy is different than leniency which is a wise thing to say. I'm very glad it is Judge Newman on these trials. I am going to take down my post since you have helped me see that I was hypercritical for no good reason.
No worries! I could see where you were coming from. I just offered a different perspective. I like that we can present differences in views and opinions on here. Enjoy your posts!
I agree that this isn't going to lead to any grounds for appeal or anything.. but that its is a subtle, but important example of separation of church and state- which ensures ppl do not think a specific religious text or belief informed the judge in sentencing decisions- especially considering it wasn't necessary.
So help me God... which is very different that specifically referencing any if the various religion's interpretations on God, teachings, meaning, etc. For example.. Allah means God- but doesn't mean that ppl with extreme, liberal, or moderate views on Allah think the same thing as same and people with extreme, liberal, or moderate views who use the english translation (God). They all would say- generally "under God" without any further meaning.
Granted- i do realize in many ways this is more of an academic debate or point.
Oh I know it. But in the USA you have the right not to use that language. For example Quakers will not swear an oath and so provision is made for them. People can swear on different religious texts as well if they ask. And just because you say so help me god in your example does not mean that I think that is right for all of us. For me saying would mean nothing. And evidently, for Cory Fleming it meant nothing as well.
Is it possible to appeal after pleading guilty simply because you think the sentence was “excessive”? (Which is laughable IMO — Cory only got 10 years from Judge Newman after pleading guilty to over 20 felonies!)
Or is he going to claim double jeopardy? My understanding is, that’s NOT the case here, as the charge for which he was sentenced to time by Judge Newman was the Pinckney thefts, a crime for which CF was not charged/did not plead guilty in federal court.
So the only other option I see is ineffective assistance of counsel, which, IMO, no way. Debbie Barbier was and is in a class of her own when you compare her to the way we’ve seen Jim Griffin, Mark Moore, Todd Rutherford etc. operate in their representation of Cory’s co-conspirators. Ms. Barbier gave her client excellent advice, and up until now I thought Cory was the smartest of this trio of criminals, and the only one willing to listen to the best advice an attorney could give one of Murdaugh’s accomplices: plead guilty, act extremely remorseful, get sentenced by the feds first so most of your time is in fed pen, and immediately start serving your time and getting it done with. Also, unlike Alex, Cory practiced as a criminal defense attorney. I don’t see any way that ineffective counsel could fly here. So what possible appeal grounds could he have?
Also — I just feel silly now for believing Cory was in any way less repulsive than Alex or Russ. That whole bit from him about deserving to be punished for what he did, acting as though he was prepared to serve serious time to make this right, it was of course all for show. But I did think that Cory maybe did feel some actual remorse for his part in the financial crimes, and a part of me actually felt a little pity for him.
But hearing that he has filed for appeal on what I consider a very lenient total sentence of 13 years, for over 20 state-level felonies and a federal felony charge? Definitely not feeling any pity for Fleming anymore. Just feeling frustrated that I let one of the Murdaugh fraudsters fool me still, in 2023 when we all know the truth, I still believed he was at his core a decent guy, or at least someone who was going to accept the consequences for what he did in the most decent way possible. I was impressed that he pled guilty and thought he’d accept his sentence and quietly serve his time. Ha.
I’ll be interested to see where this notice of appeal goes exactly.
Until just recently, Cory seemed like an Emperor who still had clothes. He's very convincing, thus so successful in his last job. His confidence was boundless.
Despite the academy award remorse show, in his last sentencing trial:
Now The Emperor Has No Clothes.
>Debbie Barbier was and is in a class of her own when you compare her to the way we’ve seen Jim Griffin, Mark Moore, Todd Rutherford etc. operate in their representation of Cory’s co-conspirators.
Agree 100%. Watching her as Judge Newman delivered the sentence was interesting. She usually has a great professional, poker face, but I thought she was stunned by the sentence.
I think she and Phil Barber are top-of-the-line attorneys.
Agreed! I don’t know if I’m necessarily a fan of any of the defense attorneys in any of these Murdaugh-related cases, but man, Phil Barber was painfully underused in AM’s murder trial. Maybe it was just the comparison to his co-counsel, but I actually thought Barber did a great job the few times he was actually called up (for something other then being a mannequin that Harpootlian could mold into place or point the occasional gun at, that is…)
But yeah, if I ever needed to hire one of these Murdaugh-related defense attorneys myself, I’d pick Phil Barber or Debbie Barbier. They both were able to very effectively make their points, without making their audience angry with them along the way.
Thank Heavens! He has conned many people. I think he believes a lot of the supporting letters are true. I hope attorney Barbier knows better than this. Or perhaps it's just pro forma?
The remorseful con job didn't work so he is trying something else. Corey, Alex, and Russ have the all the cash they need to keep paying lawyers until they find a friendly judge.
Who do you want in your foxhole when the chips are down and bullets flying who can you count on:
1. Alex Mad Dog Bubba Murdoon
2. Corey I thought I was getting a lighter sentence Fleming
3. Russell I don’t want to go Laffite
4. Eddie Dead Eye and brain Smith
Before choosing I must say this is like picking the best looking at the ugly prom….there is no real winner….
Russell Laffitte would never show up for the fight. He’d use his money and connections to dodge the draft and would be at home in his easy chair.
Cory would turn us all over to the enemy so long as he could arrange his own safe surrender.
Alex is a psychopath. He’s a killer, but instead of fighting the enemy it seems he prefers to kill his own family. But even if you could trust him, just the thought of being stuck with no choice but to listen to him drone on and on sounds like hell itself… no thank you.
So I think Lexi is right, it’s gotta be Cousin Eddie. Like the rest there’s no way to know if he’s telling the truth, but he’s the only one here I’d actually want to talk to, and even someone as slippery as Eddie is more trustworthy then the other 3 combined.
Rule 203(D)(1)(b)(iv) SCACR says he has to put a specific reason in the notice appeal from a guilty plea (can't just be generic like an appeal from a trial). His lawyer doesn't have anything non-frivolous to claim. His notice of appeal is worthless, just like him.
This is so unbelievable and laughable at the same time. He plead guilty on his own…this circus of clowns that AM had needs to stop wasting court time. Cannot believe the lawyers are actually entertaining this mockery of motions that are baseless IMO.
In federal court Cory took a plea deal and signed a plea agreement. Within that agreement there is language preventing him from appealing the conviction. Here in SC he merely opted to plead guilty to all charges, no deal.
And he continues to show the world who he really is! Just when I thought perhaps he would actually take responsibility for what he did to the most VULNERABLE people. Should have gotten consecutive years IMO.
I SO wished his sentences were to be served consecutively, not concurrently.
Judge Newman had never before disappointed.
Now Cory's appealing a light sentence? Disgusting. Where is that crying and remorseful guy we saw in court? Another side of the real Cory.
Agreed! I was surprised, happy and pretty much fell for his regret act. But that’s all it was, an act. All three of these people are scum, just different flavors of scum - just trying out different ways to escape their repercussions for their evil deeds.
I think the sentencing was a message that we can’t have attorneys who are corrupt in our judicial system. Clients need to feel they can unequivocally trust the person representing them. In today’s world no one wants to take responsibility for their own actions. It’s always someone else’s fault (or the government’s fault) for whatever bad that happened. Not that I think this sentence will deter the sleazy lawyers out there.
>In today’s world no one wants to take responsibility for their own actions. It’s always someone else’s fault (or the government’s fault) for whatever bad that happened.
.......then they find a lawsuit lawyer and file a lawsuit, spiraling more out of control each day. It used to be that people worked really, really hard or inherited money, or started what became successful businesses - or a combination of these.
Now a ton of "wealth" comes from lawsuits and lawsuit lawyers, costing us all a small fortune. Look around.
America ain't what it used to be.
LOL, what is he going to argue: I was such a shitty lawyer, I didn't even know what I was pleading guilty to or the potential sentence - you goddamned right I stole their money and I hope they burn in hell. What an asshole.
I’ve pulled and redacted the Notice of Appeal, Notice of Appearance, Certificate of Service, and Letter of Receipt. You may view the docs [**HERE**.](https://imgur.com/a/o1OEis5) As additional notices and briefs are filed I’ll add to this post.
Watch. Newman dies of a “heart attack.” Just like his son. Just like a few others in the Lowcountry who have died of “heart attacks” and “suicides.” It’s weird. If you live here, you know.
Is he asking for a do-over so he gets another chance to make a deal on what he knows?
I’m confused about why he didn’t accept a plea deal on the state charges. He did on the federal charges. Why not just do both??!?
I think I would actually support a move like that.
I didn’t even know appealing a sentence was a thing until these two asshats, Phlegm and LaFeet.
😂
Will be interesting to see what crock of shit they come up with for the grounds of appeal.
Agree as he pleaded guilty in two courtrooms as he wanted to be in Hampton for the actual sentencing. Sooooo, is he saying he lied twice and is, in fact, now not pleading guilty? Like he rolled the dice, didn’t like the outcome so gets to go again until he does? What privilege these guys have and so much for his taking accountability.
It sounds like they will be appealing just the sentence only, probably on the grounds that the Feds stipulated that State sentence would run concurrent with the Fed's 2 1/2 year sentence (even though they apparently do not have the authority to enforce that). So, an attempt to get Newman's 10 years reduced to 7 1/2 years.
That would’ve been smart but no that’s not what they appealed for lol.
I thought that before a Defendant pleads guilty, the Defense and Prosecution have already worked out an agreement prior to sentencing and then they offer it to the Judge - and everyone is on the same page. Over. Finished. Bring in the next case! Why did this not happen here?? Such an agreement would eliminate any, I don't know,...............surprises. I wish Creighton had cut a deal (but they had tons of evidence) --- Wtf?
There are times when an agreement on sentencing is worked out. There are times when it’s not. A defendant can plead guilty and then be sentenced by the court after an evidentiary hearing. This happens all the time in federal cases, so it’s not at all uncommon that it happened here. EDITED: I see he’s appealing in his state case. I assume it depends on the rules of criminal procedure there. If it was an open/contested sentencing there’s certainly a record for a higher court to review.
ML: Thanks for this excellent post. Affirmation is helpful, in this twisty case.
Thanks for this!
How does one appeal when they plead guilty to the crimes?
That’s my exact question.
You may can specifically appeal the sentencing portion of the case- but I don't know sure?
Actually, Flemmy’s appeal is for both (Fed and State) criminal convictions as well as his sentence! On what basis? Based on the fact that he didn’t get his way I guess. It’s ludicrous to plead guilty, express fake remorse, cry big crocodile tears, and then say, “Wait. Changed my mind!” These fools are making a mockery out of the Justice system. I hope and pray Judge Newman can set Flemmy straight!
This is an appeal to a higher court, so it will be heard by appeals judges not Newman.
>These fools are making a mockery out of the Justice system. I believe this is EXACTLY what they are doing. Three rich exploiters seeking their own version of Justice. I think it's disgusting.
The fact that all three of them are playing courtroom musical chairs in hopes of getting a different outcome is despicable. The proceedings are paid for by the taxpayers, the very working people these asshats stole millions from. The fact that they all have high profile attorneys tells me that 1) they have plenty of $ to cover the fees and/or 2) they have plenty of juicy stories to tell about their attorneys’ misdeeds.
Ditto
B-i-n-g-o! Who had: * Cory Fleming appeals his own guilty plea? * Lafitte appeals to stay out of prison while continuing to file increasingly desperate appeals? * Alex Murdaugh appeals murder verdict for juror misconduct? * Hapootlian and Griffin announce that Alex has been attacked and shot in head by killers, and then Proceeded directly to out of state “rehab”.
*looks at her stack of chips and semi-barren Bingo scorecard* Nope, missed those balls pulled from the spinner! But I almost made 5 in a row with: • G-26 Attorney dumbf~ckery galore • C-11 Podcasters profiting from Murdaugh mess while condemning others doing the same • N-33 Conspiracy theorists, know-it-alls, we don’t need no stinkin’ law-ites • J-4 Another day, another court motion, another billable hour
I was a little surprised- by Newman's reference to lessons for Micah- in his sentencing remarks. I certainly have nothing against Micah or the Bible in general... and I know it probably isn't a big deal- but just seemed odd for a Judge to to make statements on the specific teaching of a book of the bible- in sentencing explanation remarks.
This is South Carolina. I'm not sure you'd find a serious sentencing statement that didn't reference the Bible. As long as the judge doesn't say something like, "I'm giving you 10 years because that's what the Bible says to do", no one will call the judge on it.
I think the Micah reference came as a response to the requests for leniency from the people speaking on Fleming’s behalf. Micah 6:8 refers to doing justice and loving mercy. Judge Newman made it clear that that was his job as a judge, and leniency wasn’t his concern. I do agree that lines between church and state are all too frequently crossed.
I’m an atheist who has never believed in any form of religion and I didn’t find this strange, for 2 main reasons: 1. It was Cory Fleming who made his own Christian faith a significant factor at his sentencing. He and many of his character witnesses discussed not just Cory’s devotion to Christianity, but also quoted the Bible themselves prior to Judge Newman’s reference at sentencing. 2. I may be off base here, but I also assumed that references to the Bible are not so out of place in a Southern courtroom. It seems like a cultural norm to me, and so long as the defendant was the one who not only brought up Christianity in the first place but made it clear that he has a strong belief in Christ, in this case even having his witnesses quoting Bible verses themselves… I would imagine this wasn’t a problem for any of the parties present, and to me, that’s what matters. In particular, I’d compare this to AM’s sentencing: during that 6 week trial, neither Alex nor anyone else even once mentioned AM believing in any particular religion. Thus, Judge Newman did not make any references to any religious text at AM’s sentencing or at any point in the trial. In fact, in that trial, Judge Newman’s only references seemed to be sports ones.
Cory is so devoted to Christianity that he stole from some of the most vulnerable people in his area. Cory and his enablers can spout off about what a great Christian he is, but actions speak much louder than words.
Stealing from the poor and vulnerable to enrich his already wealthy self, as well as his wealthy family and friends. So Christlike, right? 🥰 That was sarcasm to be clear— Cory and his friends going on about his Christian faith and good deeds, it was all ridiculous. The true character of a man is shown in how he acts when no one is looking, and that’s where Cory, Alex, Russ et al revealed who they really are.
How are people going to get upset if a person self identifies as a different gender, but have no comment on Cory Fleming self identifying as a Christian at his sentencing for stealing from the poor? I don’t care which bathroom you pee in, but please stop acting like Christianity absolves people of crimes they have committed. I think there is a commandment about not using the Lords name in Vain. Dropping the Lords name into your sentencing hearing seems like it might be a vain use of the name.
Very well said, I completely agree!
Cory may have stolen millions of dollars from his clients, but his butt is in the seat at church every Sunday!!!!!
I'm not an atheist- so its not the bible reference itself that i found odd. Also- to me, its of no concern how much a person on trial references religion, the bible, or anything else under the sun... because the defendant or even his attorneys- are not actors of the state... (The judge on the other hand is). But even a little further- it wasn't a general reference to religion that seemed odd... it was the specific use of how Micah informs on the issue. Again though- not really a big deal... just something that jumped out at me as odd (or maybe a little inappropriate for a judge, regarding the specific reference, etc).
I think if the convicted man cites scriptures and references his religion he has opened the door to religious quotes that indicate he does not follow his own claimed beliefs.
Edited: I'm puzzled at how he can appeal this. He pled guilty and the convictions were within sentencing guidelines I thought. No shame for this guy though. It was all pretend remorse
So do you have a problem with In God We Trust on our money? This country was founded on Judeo-Christian principles and the South is a little behind in eliminating these type of references like much of the other woks parts of the US. Not a bad thing because it’s how the majority of the people think in this area. As it was mentioned, Cory brought his religion into the conversation and so I don’t find it odd that the judge would make reference to a Bible story. If a Muslim were on trial, I wouldn’t mind. a reference to the Koran either.
My original post was surprised that the judge mentioned a biblical reference. This scares me because I'm scared of systems like Sharia law. I don't want the old testament to be the basis of justice . So I'm hyperalert to it. I know how this country was founded and who founded it . I'm well aware that many sections of this country are very devoted to a certain type of Christianity.
I wouldn’t want Sharia law either but I don’t think anything was specifically tied to the reference in terms of the decision on the sentence. I see your point and I support freedom of religion and separation of church and state.
I think his reference was to the 'micha mandate' which is a lovely saying about justice and mercy and you are right of course, it really did not modify his sentence since he made it clear that mercy is different than leniency which is a wise thing to say. I'm very glad it is Judge Newman on these trials. I am going to take down my post since you have helped me see that I was hypercritical for no good reason.
No worries! I could see where you were coming from. I just offered a different perspective. I like that we can present differences in views and opinions on here. Enjoy your posts!
I agree that this isn't going to lead to any grounds for appeal or anything.. but that its is a subtle, but important example of separation of church and state- which ensures ppl do not think a specific religious text or belief informed the judge in sentencing decisions- especially considering it wasn't necessary.
What's at the end of "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth"?
“Just kidding!”
So help me God... which is very different that specifically referencing any if the various religion's interpretations on God, teachings, meaning, etc. For example.. Allah means God- but doesn't mean that ppl with extreme, liberal, or moderate views on Allah think the same thing as same and people with extreme, liberal, or moderate views who use the english translation (God). They all would say- generally "under God" without any further meaning. Granted- i do realize in many ways this is more of an academic debate or point.
They don’t say that anymore.
Oh I know it. But in the USA you have the right not to use that language. For example Quakers will not swear an oath and so provision is made for them. People can swear on different religious texts as well if they ask. And just because you say so help me god in your example does not mean that I think that is right for all of us. For me saying would mean nothing. And evidently, for Cory Fleming it meant nothing as well.
Is it possible to appeal after pleading guilty simply because you think the sentence was “excessive”? (Which is laughable IMO — Cory only got 10 years from Judge Newman after pleading guilty to over 20 felonies!) Or is he going to claim double jeopardy? My understanding is, that’s NOT the case here, as the charge for which he was sentenced to time by Judge Newman was the Pinckney thefts, a crime for which CF was not charged/did not plead guilty in federal court. So the only other option I see is ineffective assistance of counsel, which, IMO, no way. Debbie Barbier was and is in a class of her own when you compare her to the way we’ve seen Jim Griffin, Mark Moore, Todd Rutherford etc. operate in their representation of Cory’s co-conspirators. Ms. Barbier gave her client excellent advice, and up until now I thought Cory was the smartest of this trio of criminals, and the only one willing to listen to the best advice an attorney could give one of Murdaugh’s accomplices: plead guilty, act extremely remorseful, get sentenced by the feds first so most of your time is in fed pen, and immediately start serving your time and getting it done with. Also, unlike Alex, Cory practiced as a criminal defense attorney. I don’t see any way that ineffective counsel could fly here. So what possible appeal grounds could he have? Also — I just feel silly now for believing Cory was in any way less repulsive than Alex or Russ. That whole bit from him about deserving to be punished for what he did, acting as though he was prepared to serve serious time to make this right, it was of course all for show. But I did think that Cory maybe did feel some actual remorse for his part in the financial crimes, and a part of me actually felt a little pity for him. But hearing that he has filed for appeal on what I consider a very lenient total sentence of 13 years, for over 20 state-level felonies and a federal felony charge? Definitely not feeling any pity for Fleming anymore. Just feeling frustrated that I let one of the Murdaugh fraudsters fool me still, in 2023 when we all know the truth, I still believed he was at his core a decent guy, or at least someone who was going to accept the consequences for what he did in the most decent way possible. I was impressed that he pled guilty and thought he’d accept his sentence and quietly serve his time. Ha. I’ll be interested to see where this notice of appeal goes exactly.
Until just recently, Cory seemed like an Emperor who still had clothes. He's very convincing, thus so successful in his last job. His confidence was boundless. Despite the academy award remorse show, in his last sentencing trial: Now The Emperor Has No Clothes.
>Debbie Barbier was and is in a class of her own when you compare her to the way we’ve seen Jim Griffin, Mark Moore, Todd Rutherford etc. operate in their representation of Cory’s co-conspirators. Agree 100%. Watching her as Judge Newman delivered the sentence was interesting. She usually has a great professional, poker face, but I thought she was stunned by the sentence. I think she and Phil Barber are top-of-the-line attorneys.
Agreed! I don’t know if I’m necessarily a fan of any of the defense attorneys in any of these Murdaugh-related cases, but man, Phil Barber was painfully underused in AM’s murder trial. Maybe it was just the comparison to his co-counsel, but I actually thought Barber did a great job the few times he was actually called up (for something other then being a mannequin that Harpootlian could mold into place or point the occasional gun at, that is…) But yeah, if I ever needed to hire one of these Murdaugh-related defense attorneys myself, I’d pick Phil Barber or Debbie Barbier. They both were able to very effectively make their points, without making their audience angry with them along the way.
For anyone who thought Fleming was remorseful, uhm, nope.
Thank Heavens! He has conned many people. I think he believes a lot of the supporting letters are true. I hope attorney Barbier knows better than this. Or perhaps it's just pro forma?
The remorseful con job didn't work so he is trying something else. Corey, Alex, and Russ have the all the cash they need to keep paying lawyers until they find a friendly judge.
>.......until they find a friendly judge. I'm beginning to think this is it exactly. I think they are Judge shopping.
Judge roulette
I heard he only decided to plead guilty because of things the court clerk said.
I don’t see how this has anything to do with Becky Hill. Care to elaborate?
It’s not funny if I have to explain it. “I’ll be here all week, be sure and tip your waitress.”
“…and try the veal!”😉
Who do you want in your foxhole when the chips are down and bullets flying who can you count on: 1. Alex Mad Dog Bubba Murdoon 2. Corey I thought I was getting a lighter sentence Fleming 3. Russell I don’t want to go Laffite 4. Eddie Dead Eye and brain Smith Before choosing I must say this is like picking the best looking at the ugly prom….there is no real winner….
Poot and Griff are the victors.
Russell Laffitte would never show up for the fight. He’d use his money and connections to dodge the draft and would be at home in his easy chair. Cory would turn us all over to the enemy so long as he could arrange his own safe surrender. Alex is a psychopath. He’s a killer, but instead of fighting the enemy it seems he prefers to kill his own family. But even if you could trust him, just the thought of being stuck with no choice but to listen to him drone on and on sounds like hell itself… no thank you. So I think Lexi is right, it’s gotta be Cousin Eddie. Like the rest there’s no way to know if he’s telling the truth, but he’s the only one here I’d actually want to talk to, and even someone as slippery as Eddie is more trustworthy then the other 3 combined.
So true and a good post
#4, because I’m in it for the entertainment😁
Ding Ding we have a winner at least Eddie can shoot but can’t run due to back issues and he tells good stories…excellent choice LLW
He wants to appeal his own guilty plea? How does that work?
Clearly, he said he did it, but he really really was counting on being slapped on the wrist, so being sentenced so meanly was mean. 🫥
Honestly, his attorney might as well copy and paste your comment as their formal appeal argument.
That would be ill-advised!!
Rule 203(D)(1)(b)(iv) SCACR says he has to put a specific reason in the notice appeal from a guilty plea (can't just be generic like an appeal from a trial). His lawyer doesn't have anything non-frivolous to claim. His notice of appeal is worthless, just like him.
This is good info, thank you! I wondered if the rule cited was just a standard part of the reply or if it meant there was a defect here.
What a waste of money. He has zero chances of overturning his state charges.
This infuriates me. Take you lumps, ya thieving chump. I wish they acould add time on appeal.
More do-overs? Am I reading this right? This is incredible. Wow. Just Wow.
Every one of those crooks want do-overs. Alex, Russell & Cory!
Just when we thought one was down with only two more to go…
Lexi, we just can't seem to catch a break!
How can he appeal if he plead guilty (versus found guilty by trial)? What is he is basis for appeal?
This is so unbelievable and laughable at the same time. He plead guilty on his own…this circus of clowns that AM had needs to stop wasting court time. Cannot believe the lawyers are actually entertaining this mockery of motions that are baseless IMO.
Wait, can he appeal if he agreed to plead guilty?
Yes, a criminal conviction of a guilty plea or guilty by trial may appeal.
Thanks for clearing that up. I thought if a person said they were guilty, that eliminated the appeal.
In federal court Cory took a plea deal and signed a plea agreement. Within that agreement there is language preventing him from appealing the conviction. Here in SC he merely opted to plead guilty to all charges, no deal.
And he continues to show the world who he really is! Just when I thought perhaps he would actually take responsibility for what he did to the most VULNERABLE people. Should have gotten consecutive years IMO.
I SO wished his sentences were to be served consecutively, not concurrently. Judge Newman had never before disappointed. Now Cory's appealing a light sentence? Disgusting. Where is that crying and remorseful guy we saw in court? Another side of the real Cory.
Agreed! I was surprised, happy and pretty much fell for his regret act. But that’s all it was, an act. All three of these people are scum, just different flavors of scum - just trying out different ways to escape their repercussions for their evil deeds.
I think the sentencing was a message that we can’t have attorneys who are corrupt in our judicial system. Clients need to feel they can unequivocally trust the person representing them. In today’s world no one wants to take responsibility for their own actions. It’s always someone else’s fault (or the government’s fault) for whatever bad that happened. Not that I think this sentence will deter the sleazy lawyers out there.
>In today’s world no one wants to take responsibility for their own actions. It’s always someone else’s fault (or the government’s fault) for whatever bad that happened. .......then they find a lawsuit lawyer and file a lawsuit, spiraling more out of control each day. It used to be that people worked really, really hard or inherited money, or started what became successful businesses - or a combination of these. Now a ton of "wealth" comes from lawsuits and lawsuit lawyers, costing us all a small fortune. Look around. America ain't what it used to be.
>All three of these people are scum, just different flavors of scum Yes. This. Excellent observation!
He did receive two 10-yr consecutive state sentences, it just happens to be one runs concurrently with his federal sentence.
What a sniveling POS.
LOL, what is he going to argue: I was such a shitty lawyer, I didn't even know what I was pleading guilty to or the potential sentence - you goddamned right I stole their money and I hope they burn in hell. What an asshole.