Susan Smith, infamously known for the tragic deaths of her two young sons, will learn on November 20, 2023, whether her life sentence may be reduced after spending nearly three decades in prison. She is set to participate in a virtual parole hearing from Leath Correctional Institution in Greenwood, South Carolina.
Susan Smith became eligible for parole on November 4, 2024, after serving a third of her life sentence. Her life sentence was imposed in 1995 after she confessed to the harrowing act of rolling her vehicle down a boat ramp into John D. Long Lake with her children, 3-year-old Michael and 14-month-old Alexander, strapped in their car seats. The tragic incident garnered national attention, particularly due to Smith’s initial fabrication that her children had been kidnapped by a Black man, which incited a widespread search.
The case took a dark turn when, after nine days of deception, Smith confessed to having planned to take her own life that night but instead chose to send her car, with her children inside, into the water. This led to her conviction for two counts of murder.
At the upcoming parole hearing, David Smith, the father of Michael and Alexander, intends to express his feelings directly to the parole board. He has emphasized that he will speak candidly and believes that looking the board members in the eyes will help convey the impact of his sons’ tragic deaths. David Smith is expected to argue that the 30 years Susan Smith has already served does not equate to sufficient punishment for the lives lost.
The Board of Paroles and Pardons will consider various factors during the hearing, including Smith’s behavior and record while incarcerated. Notably, Smith faced additional charges in August 2024 for communicating with a victim and possessing unauthorized drugs during her time in prison. Furthermore, she has been implicated in misconduct with corrections officers, which could influence the board’s decision.
While 50 inmates are scheduled for parole hearings on the same day, Susan Smith stands out as one of the nine convicted murderers seeking parole.
This case continues to resonate deeply with the community and beyond, serving as a somber reminder of the consequences of one’s actions and the enduring pain felt by families impacted by crime. While the road to healing for David Smith and others affected by this tragedy is undoubtedly long, it is through open dialogue and transparency that hope for a more profound change can emerge.