Serialously with Annie Elise Episode 210: Family Nightmare: Did the Step Dad Know? | The Twisted Case of 14-year-old Carly Gregg Release Date: November 4, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 210 of Serialously with Annie Elise, host Annie Elise delves deep into the harrowing case of 14-year-old Carly Gregg, who was charged with murdering her mother, Ashley Smiley, and attempting to kill her stepfather, Heath Smiley. This episode unpacks the intricate layers of deception, mental health complexities, and familial tensions that surround this tragic incident.

Background of Carly Gregg

Carly Gregg was born in 2009 to Ashley and Kevin Gregg. Her early life was marked by tragedy with the birth and subsequent death of her sister, Natalie, likely due to spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). This loss strained her parents' marriage, leading to their divorce when Carly was around four years old. Carly, a remarkable student who even skipped a grade, exhibited signs of anxiety from a young age, which her mother diligently sought to address through therapy.

Notable Quote:

"Carly was an incredibly smart kid... she even skipped a grade, which is something that doesn't really happen very often."
— Annie Elise [02:07]

The Crime Day: March 19, 2024

On the afternoon of March 19, 2024, Carly shot her stepfather, Heath Smiley, and her mother, Ashley Smiley, before fleeing the scene. The chaotic 911 call captured Carly's alarming calmness, further complicating perceptions of her mental state during the incident.

Notable Quote:

"The news was spreading like wildfire in Brandon, Mississippi, a small suburb of Jackson."
— Annie Elise [06:32]

Investigation and Trial

The investigation revealed that Carly had been exhibiting troubling behaviors leading up to the murders, including drug use, self-harm, and rebellious actions such as bringing a knife to school. Surveillance footage showed her methodical actions during the crime, including hiding the gun and informing a friend about her intentions.

Carly was charged as an adult and, six months post-murder, stood trial in September 2024. Her defense hinged on her mental health, arguing that Carly suffered from severe mental disorders that impaired her judgment and understanding of her actions.

Notable Quote:

"Carly was a good kid with no prior arrests. She had no history of violence."
— Annie Elise [15:54]

Defense vs. Prosecution Arguments

Defense: Carly's legal team presented evidence of her diagnosed bipolar disorder, citing her journal entries and therapist's testimony to argue that she was not in full control of her actions. They highlighted recent changes in her medication and her emotional dependency on her mother as factors contributing to her mental instability.

Prosecution: The prosecution portrayed Carly as a manipulative and calculating individual. They pointed to her intelligent demeanor, strategic actions during the crime, and diary entries that suggested premeditation. They dismissed the insanity defense, arguing that Carly understood right from wrong and intentionally orchestrated the murders.

Notable Quote:

“Your verdict should be based on the evidence and not upon speculation, guesswork, or conjecture.”
— Prosecutor [70:28]

Verdict and Aftermath

After a few hours of deliberation, the jury found Carly guilty of all charges, sentencing her to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The defense immediately sought a retrial, presenting new testimonies, including conflicting statements from Carly's biological father, Kevin Gregg. However, the judge denied the motion, citing insufficient evidence to support the claims of innocence or reasonable doubt.

Theories and Speculations

Post-verdict, various theories emerged questioning whether Carly acted alone or if there was undue influence from her stepfather, Heath Smiley. Suspicious behaviors, such as Heath's interactions with Carly during the trial and his handling of security camera footage, fueled speculations of a possible conspiracy or abuse. However, no concrete evidence tied Heath directly to the murders beyond his victimization.

Notable Quote:

"She knew right from wrong. That girl is not insane."
— Heath Smiley [72:17]

Conclusion

Annie Elise wraps up the episode by highlighting the unresolved questions surrounding Carly Gregg's case. Whether driven by mental illness or other malicious influences, the case remains a poignant example of the complexities within familial relationships and the criminal justice system's handling of juvenile offenders.

Notable Quote:

"Maybe Heath just understands that Carly is a teenager, quite possibly with very serious mental health issues, and that's the end of it."
— Annie Elise [72:57]

Final Thoughts

The episode invites listeners to ponder the multifaceted nature of true crime cases, especially those involving young perpetrators with potential mental health struggles. Carly Gregg's story serves as a stark reminder of the profound impacts of family dynamics and the critical need for comprehensive mental health support.

Notable Quotes Summary:

• Annie Elise [02:07]:
  "Carly was an incredibly smart kid... she even skipped a grade, which is something that doesn't really happen very often."

• Annie Elise [06:32]:
  "The news was spreading like wildfire in Brandon, Mississippi, a small suburb of Jackson."

• Annie Elise [15:54]:
  "Carly was a good kid with no prior arrests. She had no history of violence."

• Prosecutor [70:28]:
  “Your verdict should be based on the evidence and not upon speculation, guesswork, or conjecture.”

• Heath Smiley [72:17]:
  "She knew right from wrong. That girl is not insane."

• Annie Elise [72:57]:
  "Maybe Heath just understands that Carly is a teenager, quite possibly with very serious mental health issues, and that's the end of it."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented in Episode 210 of Serialously with Annie Elise, providing an engaging and informative overview for both loyal listeners and newcomers alike.