Law enforcement officials began a two-day search at the home of Susan Flores, mother of Paul Flores, who was convicted in 2022 for the murder of college student Kristin Smart. The property, located in Arroyo Grande, California, is part of an ongoing investigation into Smart's disappearance and whereabouts of her remains.
Key Takeaways
Authorities conducted a two-day search of Paul Flores' mother's home in connection with the 1996 disappearance of Kristin Smart. The convicted killer was sentenced to 25 years for her murder but her remains have never been found.
- Authorities searched Susan Flores’ home linked to Kristin Smart’s case
- Paul Flores, convicted of killing Smart in 1996, maintains his innocence
- Scientists detected volatile organic compounds suggesting decomposing human remains
The search warrant executed by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office follows a three-year effort involving scientists who used soil vapor sampling to detect volatile organic compounds associated with decomposing human remains. According to The Guardian and Los Angeles Times, these findings prompted further investigation despite prior searches yielding no results.
Kristin Smart, declared legally dead in 2002, went missing from California Polytechnic State University in May 1996. Prosecutors alleged she was killed during an attempted rape by Paul Flores, the last person seen with her. Although Paul Flores was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison, his father Ruben Flores was acquitted of accessory charges.
In a statement, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office expressed their commitment to bringing Smart home to her family. District Attorney Dan Dow reiterated this dedication, emphasizing the use of every lawful tool available to locate Kristin's remains and support her family. The search comes amid ongoing legal developments, including a 2024 ruling that Paul Flores must pay over $350,000 in restitution to Smart’s family.
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