The South Carolina state parole board has denied parole for Susan Smith, a mother who infamously murdered her two young sons nearly 30 years ago. On October 25, 1994, Smith left her children—3-year-old Michael and 14-month-old Alex—strapped in their car seats before rolling her car into John D. Long Lake in Union County.
During the hearing, Smith expressed remorse for her actions, stating, “I know that what I did was horrible, and I would give anything if I could go back and change it.” Her lawyer, Tommy Thomas, advocated for her release, citing her struggles with mental illness, including suicidal tendencies and undiagnosed postpartum depression. He mentioned that Smith is currently studying for a counseling degree and highlighted that she would have family support if paroled.
Despite her pleas, the board’s decision to deny parole was unanimous, with opposition coming from family members, including her ex-husband David Smith, and others who remarked on the premeditated nature of her actions. Testimonies reflected the profound emotional impact her crime had on the community, as many wore photos of the children to demonstrate their commitment to keeping Smith incarcerated.
The tragic case gained national attention after Smith initially fabricated a story about a Black man kidnapping her sons, leading to intense media coverage and a frantic search for the children. Opponents of her release underscored that it was not a tragic mistake but rather a deliberate choice to end their lives. One of the prosecutors from her trial emphasized the staggering betrayal involved; a mother responsible for her children’s welfare had instead chosen to end their lives.
Smith faced further scrutiny regarding her behavior in prison, which included a disciplinary issue for illegally speaking with a documentary filmmaker. This behavior raised questions about her ability to follow rules upon release. Nonetheless, she expressed a desire to change, stating that she has learned the importance of family and forgiveness during her time in prison.
In his statement after the decision, David Smith said the board made the right choice and vowed to continue advocating against any future parole attempts. Smith’s next opportunity for parole will be in 2026, allowing for ongoing discussions about her release and the lasting impact of her actions.
This case serves as a somber reminder of the complexities surrounding mental health and the responsibility of caregivers, prompting conversations about support systems for those struggling with emotional distress. While the tragic outcome remains, Smith’s journey reflects the importance of mental health awareness and the potential for rehabilitation, albeit recognizing the far-reaching consequences of past actions.
In summary, Susan Smith’s plea for parole was met with a strong opposition reflecting the harm caused to her family and the community. The board’s decision emphasizes the serious nature of her crime while providing a reminder of the discussions around mental health issues that can arise in similar tragic cases.