Susan Smith's Second Parole Hearing Set for Fall: Will She Go Free?
Parole Application
Susan Smith, serving life sentences for the 1994 drowning of her sons in South Carolina, is seeking parole again. The Department of Corrections confirmed Smith's latest application attempt.
This is Smith's second parole request, with the first denied by the board in 2024. She was convicted in 1995 for the deaths of Michael and Alex after confessing to rolling her car into a lake with them inside.
Details of the Crime
The case gained national attention when Smith appeared on television pleading for her children's return, initially claiming they were taken during a carjacking. However, she later admitted her actions, leading to their recovery from John D. Long Lake.
Upcoming Hearing
A parole hearing is scheduled for November 19, 2026. If denied, Smith would be eligible to apply again in 2028. In the past hearing, Smith expressed regret over her actions.
Family Opposition and Legal Defense
David Smith, her ex-husband and father of the boys, strongly opposes her release. During prior proceedings, lawyer Tommy Thomas highlighted her untreated mental illness following her father's suicide as a contributing factor.
Smith has faced disciplinary issues during her imprisonment, including infractions related to mutilation and drug possession. Most recently, she was disciplined in August 2024 for communicating with documentary producers about her case.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).