Columbia, South Carolina — In the wake of an intense double murder trial that captivated the nation, attorney Dick Harpootlian has decided to pen a book revolving around one of the state’s most notorious criminals, serial killer Donald Henry “Pee Wee” Gaskins. The media frenzy surrounding the trial of Alex Murdaugh, who was convicted of murdering his wife and son, galvanized Harpootlian to explore the complexities of criminal justice and the public’s fascination with true crime.
During Murdaugh’s trial, held at the sprawling 1,800-acre estate in June 2021, Harpootlian became a headline-grabbing figure himself, known for his gallows humor and unconventional courtroom antics, including dramatically handling evidence to argue his client’s innocence. Murdaugh ultimately received two life sentences without the possibility of parole, but the spectacle of the case left a lasting impression on Harpootlian.
As a former state senator and seasoned attorney, Harpootlian has navigated his fair share of high-profile cases. However, he noted that the unique blend of social media coverage and televised proceedings during the Murdaugh trial created an unprecedented level of public engagement. This experience reignited his long-standing interest in Gaskins, who was notorious for committing heinous crimes in the 1970s and 1980s before being executed in 1991.
Harpootlian’s upcoming book, “Dig Me a Grave,” delves into Gaskins’ life and criminal history while also examining broader themes like the death penalty. He shared that the public interest in Gaskins’ case, while significant at the time, pales in comparison to the intense following of the Murdaugh trial. The attorney admits he had contemplated writing this book for years but found the impetus to finally complete it only after experiencing the whirlwind of Murdaugh’s proceedings.
“I never realized how enormous the interest in true crime is,” Harpootlian stated. He expressed that today’s audience is entranced by the twists and turns of gruesome events, particularly when presented in real-time. Gaskins doesn’t fit the mold of an ordinary mass serial killer, making his narrative particularly compelling.
Throughout the Murdaugh trial, Harpootlian faced both acclaim and criticism, receiving numerous threats for representing the convicted murderer. He emphasized his pride in upholding the American justice system, asserting that every individual, even those accused of serious crimes, is entitled to representation. This belief is grounded in his experiences working both as a defense attorney and a prosecutor, including his time prosecuting Gaskins.
Reflecting on his earlier interactions with Gaskins, Harpootlian recalled how the killer attempted to forge a personal connection with him, once suggesting they were “kindred souls.” During their conversations, Gaskins even remarked on the darker aspects of their professions. Harpootlian’s relationship with Gaskins only deepened his understanding of the complexities of justice.
As he navigates these intricate feelings, Harpootlian draws attention to the moral implications of the death penalty, especially considering the brutal methods employed during Gaskins’ execution. He argues that capital punishment should be reserved for the most extreme cases, advocating for its humane application.
“While I was the solicitor, he attempted to have my daughter kidnapped,” Harpootlian explained, alluding to the dangerous lengths Gaskins would go. This deeply personal connection to such a notorious figure adds another layer to his impending book.
Co-authored with journalist Shaun Assael, “Dig Me a Grave,” scheduled for release on December 16, promises to be more than just a true crime narrative. It aims to provide readers with a detailed exploration of the criminal justice system, the complexities of capital punishment, and the societal obsession with crime stories, all through the lens of Harpootlian’s rich and varied career. As anticipation builds for its release, the book stands to offer a thought-provoking examination of morality, law, and human nature.