Russell Laffitte was once the golden boy of South Carolina banking—CEO of Palmetto State Bank, “Independent Banker of the Year,” heir to a century-old family dynasty. Now, he’s headed to federal prison.
In this episode of Hidden Killers, host Tony Brueski takes you inside the courtroom and beyond, unpacking the full story behind Laffitte’s five-year federal sentence for bank fraud, conspiracy, and wire fraud—all committed to prop up none other than convicted killer Alex Murdaugh.
This isn’t just about dirty money—it’s about the quiet power that makes crimes like Murdaugh’s possible. Laffitte didn’t pull the trigger. But he moved the money. He signed the loans. He drained trust accounts meant for injured clients and grieving families. And for years, he helped Alex Murdaugh steal from the people who needed protection most.
We break down how the scheme worked, who got hurt, and why Laffitte finally pleaded guilty—despite originally fighting the charges. We also explore what his downfall says about the toxic loyalty, unchecked privilege, and small-town dynasties that enabled Murdaugh to wreak havoc for over a decade.
Was Laffitte a victim of charm and pressure—or was he always this willing to betray the public trust? And how many more accomplices are still hiding in plain sight?
With new details from federal documents, court transcripts, and expert analysis, this is the story of what happens when the people who are supposed to protect the system… become part of the rot.
👉 Subscribe for more deep dives into the Murdaugh web of deception—and the enablers who kept it spinning.
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