In a recent parole hearing, Susan Smith, the woman convicted of the 1994 drowning of her two sons, was denied early release. At 53 years old, Smith faced the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services board with pleas for leniency that were ultimately rejected. The case, which has lingered in public memory for nearly three decades, saw Smith sentenced to life with the possibility of parole after 30 years.
During her parole attempt, Smith's emotional appeals did not sway the board members. Witnesses reported she tried to evoke sympathy through tears but failed to produce any visible signs of crying. She expressed remorse for her actions and claimed to have found religion while incarcerated, hoping for mercy akin to divine forgiveness.
However, David Smith, the grieving father of Michael (3) and Alex (14 months), vehemently opposed her release. He underscored the severity of Susan's actions by pointing out that a mere 15 years served per child's life taken was insufficient justice.
Legal representatives for Smith argued that her actions stemmed from a mental health crisis rather than premeditation or malice. Conversely, prosecutors maintained that the motive behind the heinous act was related to a broken romantic relationship with Thomas Findlay who had made it clear he was not prepared to become a stepfather.
The unanimous decision by the parole board reflects both ongoing societal condemnation of Susan Smith’s crimes and skepticism towards her rehabilitation claims. As such, she will continue serving her sentence at Leath Correctional Institution in Greenwood, South Carolina.
During her parole attempt, Smith's emotional appeals did not sway the board members. Witnesses reported she tried to evoke sympathy through tears but failed to produce any visible signs of crying. She expressed remorse for her actions and claimed to have found religion while incarcerated, hoping for mercy akin to divine forgiveness.
However, David Smith, the grieving father of Michael (3) and Alex (14 months), vehemently opposed her release. He underscored the severity of Susan's actions by pointing out that a mere 15 years served per child's life taken was insufficient justice.
Legal representatives for Smith argued that her actions stemmed from a mental health crisis rather than premeditation or malice. Conversely, prosecutors maintained that the motive behind the heinous act was related to a broken romantic relationship with Thomas Findlay who had made it clear he was not prepared to become a stepfather.
The unanimous decision by the parole board reflects both ongoing societal condemnation of Susan Smith’s crimes and skepticism towards her rehabilitation claims. As such, she will continue serving her sentence at Leath Correctional Institution in Greenwood, South Carolina.
