Pamela Smart, who is serving a life sentence without parole for her husband’s murder in 1990, has admitted for the first time that she is responsible for his death. This revelation came during a prison writing class where she was urged to delve deeper into her own thoughts and feelings. Smart was involved in an affair with one of the teenagers who carried out the murder, with the teenage shooter testifying during the trial that she threatened to break up with him if he didn’t kill her husband.
After decades of deflecting blame and using what she called “warped logic” as a coping mechanism, Pamela Smart has come to accept responsibility for her actions. She wrote a letter to New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu in March, acknowledging her inexcusable behaviors and the fact that the murder was ultimately her fault. Despite pleas for a pardon, this is Smart’s fourth attempt to have her sentence commuted. Her lawyer has emphasized her rehabilitation, remorse, and dedication to redemption as evidenced by academic achievements, job history, and letters of support in a recent petition.
In a videotaped statement from prison, Smart expressed remorse for her actions and admitted to past mistakes, acknowledging that her judgment was skewed and her behavior immature at the time of the murder. She highlighted personal growth and maturity, stating that she is now a more thoughtful and responsible individual. Smart has appealed for the opportunity to present her case before the New Hampshire Executive Council to have an open and honest conversation about her incarceration and acceptance of responsibility.
Despite her repeated attempts, Pamela Smart’s petition for commutation is uncertain as the governor has not committed to considering it. The Governor stated that New Hampshire’s process for such requests is fair and rigorous, and Smart will be given the chance to petition the council for a hearing like any other individual. The next meeting of the Executive Council is scheduled for June 26, but it is unclear if Smart’s case will be on the agenda. Smart’s lawyer emphasized her growth and acceptance of responsibility, hoping that the council will see her progress and grant her request for a second chance.
Smart’s cousin, Val Fryatt, expressed skepticism towards her emotional video statement, indicating that Smart failed to fully admit her role in the murder. Despite this, Smart has continued to seek understanding and forgiveness, hoping to move forward from her past mistakes. Her effort to take responsibility and seek redemption reflects her desire to demonstrate personal growth and maturity, showing a willingness to confront her actions and learn from her past.
Pamela Smart has been serving her sentence for more than three decades and is believed to be the longest-serving female inmate in the Bedford Hills women’s prison. She acknowledges her past errors and impulsive decisions, expressing a desire to engage in an honest conversation with the Executive Council about her incarceration and acceptance of responsibility. Smart’s plea for a second chance highlights her personal growth and transformation over the years, as she seeks an opportunity to demonstrate her remorse and commitment to living a more responsible and thoughtful life.
