Killer mom Susan Smith's parole hearing sparks expert opposition

Susan Smith, now 52, gained national notoriety in 1994 when she drowned her sons, 3-year-old Michael and 14-month-old Alexander, in a South Carolina lake and initially claimed that a carjacker had abducted them. As she prepares to argue for her release, she cites her behavior in prison and her traumatic upbringing as mitigating factors. However, former prosecutors and crime experts have expressed skepticism about her claims and highlighted her past infractions during incarceration, including sexual relationships with prison guards. This has fueled arguments against her eligibility for parole, with many advocating for the victims and emphasizing the lasting impact of her actions on their families and the community.

Arguments for Parole

• Behavior in Prison: Smith plans to present her record of mostly good behavior and a stable job as evidence of her rehabilitation.
• Trauma and Mental Health: She argues that her difficult upbringing and potential undiagnosed mental illness affected her judgment at the time of the crime.

Opposition to Parole

• Lack of Remorse: Critics, including former prosecutor Tommy Pope, claim she has not demonstrated genuine remorse or understanding of the gravity of her actions.
• Impact on Victims: Family members of the victims and experts point to the emotional toll her actions have had on the community and the victims’ family, arguing that her release would be unjust.

Public Reaction

A Facebook page dedicated to Michael and Alexander Smith has emerged, encouraging people to submit letters opposing Smith’s release. This grassroots effort underscores the community’s lingering pain and the desire for justice to be upheld in light of her parole hearing.