COLUMBIA, S.C. — Susan Smith is set to appear for a parole hearing next month, nearly three decades after she was found guilty of driving her car into a lake in South Carolina, resulting in the tragic deaths of her two young sons, who were strapped in their seats at the time.
At 53 years old, Smith is serving a life sentence after a jury opted against the death penalty during her 1995 murder trial. According to laws in effect at that time, she is permitted to seek parole after completing 30 years of her sentence.
The parole hearing is scheduled for November 20, as confirmed by the state Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services. In South Carolina, these hearings are usually conducted through a virtual format, with the inmate participating via video from their prison location.
In South Carolina, the chances of obtaining parole are about 8%, and it is particularly unlikely for inmates appearing before the board for the first time, especially in high-profile cases like Smith’s. Additionally, opposition from prosecutors and the victims’ families can further diminish the likelihood of release. Smith’s situation encompasses all these factors.
Tommy Pope, who was the chief prosecutor in Smith’s trial and is currently the Republican Speaker Pro Tem of the South Carolina House, expressed that he believes the jury intended her life sentence to be served in full. “The jury was under the impression that she received a life sentence and that is what she should serve,” he stated. He also commented on Smith’s conduct while incarcerated, suggesting that rather than showing remorse over her actions, she has primarily focused on her own well-being.
Smith gained international notoriety in October 1994 when she reported a carjacking incident near Union, South Carolina, claiming a man had stolen her vehicle with her sons inside. She described the supposed assailant as a Black man.
For nine harrowing days, Smith made heartfelt pleas for the safe return of her children, 3-year-old Michael and 14-month-old Alex. However, it later emerged that both boys, along with Smith’s car, had been submerged in nearby John D. Long Lake the entire time.
Investigators quickly determined that Smith’s account didn’t add up, as carjackers typically abandon vehicles without harming passengers. Questions arose about why she was allowed to exit the car while her sons remained inside, along with inconsistencies regarding the circumstances leading to the supposed theft. Smith ultimately confessed that she intentionally allowed her car to roll into the lake.
Following an investigation, it was revealed that the vehicle took six minutes to sink, during which time the water started filling the car. The bodies of the children were discovered inside, positioned upside-down in their seats, with one small hand pressed against a window.
Prosecutors indicated that Smith was involved in an affair with a wealthy man’s son, which ended due to her obligation to her young children. This led her to a tragic conclusion that she saw as a solution to her predicament. The media frenzy surrounding her trial captured national attention, although it wasn’t televised—a choice made by the judge concerned about the effects of ongoing high-profile cases, like the O.J. Simpson trial. While Smith was convicted, the jury spared her from execution.
Defense lawyers argued that Smith showed remorse, suffered from a mental breakdown, and intended to die alongside her children, claiming she only changed her mind at the last moment. Over her three decades in prison, Smith’s life behind bars has been noteworthy. Though media interviews are not permitted in South Carolina prisons, she has often communicated with reporters and true crime enthusiasts, leading to public discussions about her letters.
Smith has attempted to overturn her conviction, alleging abuse from her then-husband, David Smith, who staunchly denied these claims, stating there was no evidence to support them.
“Over these 30 years—it’s astonishing to realize it has gone by so quickly—she’s engaged in inappropriate activities with correctional staff and has gained attention for social media prospects,” claimed Pope. He noted that David Smith intends to oppose his ex-wife’s bid for parole.
In an interview with a media outlet, David Smith revealed he finds it challenging to remember his children. Although he stated he has forgiven Susan Smith, he believes she deserves to remain imprisoned for the grave crime she committed against their children.
“You cannot comprehend the extent of harm you’ve caused to countless individuals,” he stated in the interview. “To the best of my abilities, I will do everything possible to ensure you remain imprisoned.”
Pope plans to inform the parole board that jurors, when they chose not to impose the death penalty, perceived the life sentence as a permanent consequence and likely did not anticipate the possibility of her release after just 30 years.
He anticipates that Susan Smith will present her case to the parole board and may attempt to elicit sympathy by playing on the disbelief surrounding a mother committing such an act against her children.
“She has undoubtedly been preparing what to say to the board for the past 30 years,” Pope remarked.