Charges dropped in Florence double homicide

FLORENCE, S.C. (AP) — Prosecutors have dropped murder charges against a Florence man in the deaths of his wife and her mother.

But prosecutors also said Friday that the State Law Enforcement Division is still investigating and charges could be filed again when their probe is finished.

Hiralkumar Gopaldas was charged in June 2011, just days after 31-year-old Punam Gopaldas, and her 56-year-old mother, Vinaben Patel, were found stabbed in the family home. Investigators say the couple was getting a divorce.

Gopaldas’ lawyer says the dismissal of charges shows he’s innocent. Attorney Rose Mary Parham says investigators used improper tactics, like taping attorneys, and ignored evidence clearing Gopaldas for six months.

Charges have also been dropped against Gopaldas’ father.