Thirty years after being convicted for drowning her two toddler sons, Susan Smith appeared before a parole board in South Carolina seeking early release. During the hearing, Smith expressed remorse for her actions, acknowledging the pain she caused and expressing a desire to take back what she had done. Her attorney cited mental health issues, including postpartum depression, as contributing factors to the tragic event.
Smith's ex-husband, David Smith, also attended the hearing, advocating for his sons and urging the board to deny her parole. He emphasized that her actions were intentional and not a tragic mistake, pleading for justice for their children.
Prosecutor Tommy Pope, who played a role in Smith's conviction, echoed David Smith's sentiments, emphasizing that the jury intended for her to serve a full life sentence. He highlighted Smith's behavior in prison, suggesting a lack of genuine remorse for her crime.
Despite Smith's emotional plea and her attorney's arguments, the parole board unanimously voted to deny her parole, citing the severity of her crime and the lack of evidence of true contrition. The decision was met with mixed reactions, with some expressing relief that justice was served, while others questioned the possibility of rehabilitation.
Throughout the hearing, the pain and trauma caused by Smith's actions were palpable, with emotions running high among those present. The tragic case of Susan Smith serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of violent crimes on families and communities.
