Susan Smith Parole Hearing Set for November

Susan Smith, who gained national notoriety for drowning her two children in 1994, will appeal for parole after serving nearly 30 years in prison. At her parole hearing, she is expected to testify about her readiness for re-entry into society, while the board hears opposing testimonies from individuals including the former prosecutor of her case and the children's father, both arguing against her release. Smith's initial claims of a carjacking were proven false when she later confessed to the murders, leading to a life sentence rather than the death penalty. Concerns about her conduct in prison, including rule violations and a perceived lack of remorse, are expected to influence the board's decision, which has a low approval rate for parole in such high-profile cases. The hearing is scheduled for November 20, with a decision contingent on a majority vote from the seven-member panel. Smith’s case remains controversial, continuing to evoke strong public emotion and debate about justice and accountability.