Murder With My Husband – Episode 249: The Haunting Murder of Kristin Smart

Hosts: Peyton Moreland & Garrett Moreland
Release Date: December 30, 2024
Description: A true crime podcast that delves into the darkest crimes with a wife who loves it and a husband who hates it.

1. Introduction

Peyton Moreland and Garrett Moreland open the episode with personal updates before diving into the harrowing case of Kristin Smart.

At [02:30], Peyton introduces the episode:

"Hey, everyone. Welcome back to the podcast. This is Murder with My Husband. I'm Peyton Moreland."

2. Personal Updates and Anecdotes

The hosts share personal challenges, including Peyton's recent knee injury caused by prolonged sitting while streaming and Garrett’s discomfort post-holiday.

At [04:43], Garrett humorously attributes Peyton’s injury:

"Sex."

Peyton clarifies the actual cause:

"I don't know if you watch on YouTube, but every single time I record, every single time I stream, every single time I color, every single time I ride Passenger Princess, I sit crisscross applesauce."

Later, Garrett surprises Peyton with a custom-made wedding ring, showcasing their supportive relationship despite the podcast's intense subject matter.

3. Overview of the Kristin Smart Case

The episode transitions to the main subject: the mysterious disappearance of Kristin Smart from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, California, in 1996.

At [08:12], Peyton sets the stage:

"In the mid-90s, in California's San Joaquin Valley, we have a teenage Kristen Smart who is thriving."

Kristin Smart was an ambitious 19-year-old student excelling in her studies and extracurricular activities. Her decision to attend Cal Poly against her initial preference for a school in the Virgin Islands led to her tragic disappearance during Memorial Day weekend in May 1996.

4. The Night Kristin Disappeared

Kristin decided to stay back during the holiday weekend to study, accompanied by her friend Margarita Campos. Seeking to unwind, Kristin attended a party where she was last seen interacting with several males, notably Paul Flores.

At [15:00], Peyton describes the party scene:

"Kristen, on the other hand, had drawn a little more attention, I guess at around 2am that night, a senior student named Tim Davis was clearing people out."

Witnesses reported seeing Kristin with Paul Flores, who had a notorious reputation on campus for inappropriate behavior towards female students.

At [20:38], Garrett remarks on Paul’s unsettling demeanor:

"I don't get why there's people like that and I don't know, keep going."

5. Flaws in the Initial Investigation

The Cal Poly police's initial handling of Kristin's disappearance was marred by victim-blaming and delayed action. They treated Kristin's case dismissively, likening it to a "stolen bicycle," and only took meaningful action weeks later.

At [27:33], Peyton criticizes the police approach:

"She lives her life in her own way, not conforming to typical teenage behavior."

The police's reluctance to interview Paul Flores promptly and their failure to search both of his parents' homes highlighted significant investigative shortcomings.

6. The Turning Point: Chris Lambert’s Podcast

Nearly three decades later, Chris Lambert, a local journalist and podcaster, revisits the Kristin Smart case through his podcast "Your Own Backyard." His efforts rekindle public interest and uncover new evidence.

At [43:37], Garrett notes the timing:

"Also, I want to point out that 2019 is before Peyton and I even started the show."

Lambert's podcast encourages witnesses to come forward, revealing Paul's history of sexual misconduct and abusive behavior, which had largely gone unnoticed.

7. Renewed Investigation and Arrests

Lambert's persistent investigation leads to significant breakthroughs. In April 2020, the police raid Paul Flores's home, discovering incriminating videos and photos on his computer depicting sexual assaults on unconscious women.

At [48:25], Peyton summarizes the arrests:

"In April of 2021, police not only arrest now 44 year old Paul Flores for murder, they also arrest his 80 year old father."

The discovery of biological evidence under Paul’s parents' deck further solidified the case against him, despite Kristin's body never being found.

8. The Trial and Verdict

The trial commenced in July 2022, with both Paul Flores and his father, Reuben Flores, pleading not guilty. A pivotal moment came when Jennifer Hudson, a former acquaintance of Paul, testified that he had confessed to Kristen's murder.

At [51:09], Peyton emphasizes the impact of Hudson’s testimony:

"Jennifer told the jury how he had basically confessed to this murder."

On October 18, 2022, Paul Flores was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to 25 years to life in March 2023. However, Reuben Flores was acquitted of accessory charges, and Susan Flores, Paul's mother, along with her boyfriend, faced no charges.

9. Remaining Questions and Impact

Despite the conviction, many questions remain unresolved, including the exact circumstances leading to Kristin's death and the location of her remains. Paul's refusal to fully confess leaves lingering doubts and pain for Kristin's family.

At [51:22], Peyton reflects on the unresolved aspects:

"Which is what makes this case still so haunting."

The episode underscores the profound impact of true crime podcasts in bringing justice and closure to long-unsolved cases. Kristen Smart's mother, Denise Smart, expressed gratitude for Lambert’s dedication, stating that without the renewed focus, justice might never have been served.

At [53:02], Garrett acknowledges the role of media in justice:

"But unethical coverage and unethical coverage, but... the good that comes out of it as well."

10. Conclusion

"Peyton and Garrett" wrap up by highlighting the essential role of media and community advocacy in solving crimes, emphasizing that true crime should not only entertain but also serve a purpose in uncovering truth and supporting victims' families.

Peyton concludes:

"It's not just the podcasters though, it's the viewers... Word of mouth. And that is the very summarized story of Kristen Smart."

Notable Quotes

• Garrett Moreland at [04:43]:
  "Tell them how it happened, babe. It starts with an S and ends with an X."

• Peyton Moreland at [20:38]:
  "He's their age, it's wild. And people literally refer to him as Scary Paul."

• Peyton Moreland at [27:33]:
  "She does not have any close friends at Cal Poly. Smart appeared to be under the influence of alcohol."

• Jennifer Hudson at [52:25]: (Referenced)
  "I was at a party with that girl last night... I put Kristen under a skate ramp at my parents house."

• Denise Smart at [53:02]:
  "Without Chris and this podcast, we would have never got justice."

Sources Cited

Throughout the episode, the hosts reference multiple reputable sources including CBS News, The New York Times, KSBY.com, Santa Maria Times, Louisiana Times, People.com, Fox News, and NPR.org, ensuring a well-researched and credible narrative.

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Murder With My Husband" meticulously unpacks the tragic disappearance of Kristin Smart, highlighting systemic failures and the transformative power of persistent investigative journalism. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of advocacy and the relentless pursuit of justice.