Summary of "Denice Smith" Episode – Snapped: Women Who Murder

Introduction

In the "Denice Smith" episode of Snapped: Women Who Murder, host Leon Nayfak delves into a harrowing true crime story that unravels the complexities of family betrayal, custody battles, and murder. Released on May 18, 2025, this episode examines the tragic events leading to the murder of Aaron Smith and the subsequent legal battles involving his ex-wife, Denise Smith, her sister, and Denise's boyfriend.

The Tragic Incident

The story begins on July 23, 1997, in Cosby, Tennessee, where Harry Smith, a beloved father and campground manager, discovers his son, Aaron Smith, brutally murdered in his home.

• Leon Nayfak introduces the incident: "A beloved father and pastor is gunned down in broad daylight." ([02:09])

• Brittany Smith, Aaron's daughter, describes the discovery: "The father walked up there and discovered his son shot to death. It appeared he surprised the people that were burglarizing the house and tried to flee." ([02:15])

The investigation reveals that Aaron confronted intruders in his home, leading to a deadly shootout. Evidence at the scene includes missing valuables and a pair of unfamiliar silver handcuffs, raising suspicions about the nature of the crime.

Background of Aaron and Denise Smith

Aaron Smith, an ordained minister, met Denise Graham at a local Blockbuster video store in 1981. Their relationship blossomed from casual meetings into marriage, despite underlying family tensions and personal struggles.

• Harry Smith reminisces about Aaron: "He was very fun, loving and very adventurous and he was the class clown and he just had that happy, bubbly personality." ([06:32])

Denise, born in 1961, had a tumultuous relationship with her twin sister, Debbie, marked by rivalry and contrasting lifestyles—Denise thrived academically and socially, while Debbie struggled with substance abuse and rebellious behavior.

Marital Struggles and Custody Battle

After 13 years of marriage, Aaron and Denise's relationship deteriorated, culminating in Denise's affair and Aaron filing for divorce. The ensuing custody battle over their two children, Erin and Brittany, became a focal point of tension.

• Harry Smith discusses the impact of the affair: "That was when he filed for divorce and he went up the hill to live with his parents. That was a hard time for him." ([10:55])

Denise's custody claims included allegations of Aaron's abuse, which were contested and ultimately discredited during the trial.

Discovery of the Murder and Initial Investigation

Upon finding Aaron dead, investigators note signs of a staged burglary gone wrong. Witnesses report seeing a white sedan at the campground around the time of the murder, and it's revealed that the campground's secure access code suggests Aaron knew his killers.

• Brittany Smith shares traumatic details: "She had heard their conversation. Alex looks like he had been sort of in a fight. They got the drop on him to handcuff him and start shooting him." ([28:25])

Breakthrough Through Brittany's Testimony

A pivotal moment in the investigation arises when Brittany, the 10-year-old daughter, provides crucial information about her parents' disappearance and interactions with Denise's sister, Debbie, and Debbie's boyfriend, Alex Rivera.

• Brittany Smith recounts overhearing the murder: "Debbie said, 'Well, it's done. We hurt him pretty bad.' And Alex said, 'No, we killed him.'" ([29:05])

Her testimony links Denise directly to the murder, revealing premeditated actions involving the rental of the suspicious white Buick and the presence of Alex during the crime.

Legal Proceedings and Convictions

The prosecution builds a strong case against Denise, Debbie, and Alex based on circumstantial evidence and Brittany's testimony. Despite their denials, the evidence leads to their conviction.

• Brittany Smith emphasizes her role: "We could not have prosecuted the case without Brittany's testimony. We had circumstantial evidence, but the direct proof basically came from Brittany's statement." ([42:12])

In June 1999, both Denise and Debbie are found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. Alex Rivera also receives a life sentence in 2001 after cooperating minimally with authorities.

Aftermath and Reflections

The episode concludes with the Smith family, particularly Harry and Brittany, reflecting on the loss and the enduring impact of the tragedy.

• Harry Smith expresses his unwavering stance: "I think she deserves to be in there because she killed my dad. And I am very fearful of what any one of the three of them would do if they got out." ([45:07])

Brittany shares her ongoing trauma and the void left by her father's absence, highlighting the profound personal toll of the case.

Conclusion

The "Denice Smith" episode poignantly captures the unraveling of a family's facade, exposing the darkness that led to Aaron Smith's untimely death. Through meticulous investigation and the brave testimony of a young daughter, justice prevails, albeit leaving scars that underscore the enduring pain of loss and betrayal.

Notable Quotes

• Leon Nayfak: "Dogs deserve the best, and that means fresh, healthy food." ([01:37])

• Harry Smith: "The only mystery should be where you hide the treats." ([01:37])

• Brittany Smith: "That little girl is scarred for life." ([03:10])

• Harry Smith: "Like a dream. Like a horror movie or a nightmare." ([03:35])

• Harry Smith: "She had made that allegation that Aaron Smith was abusive and had struck her and also struck the children." ([17:34])

• Brittany Smith: "It's amazing to me that a 10-year-old girl, one would have to go through this." ([29:05])

• Harry Smith: "I grieve for the childhood I didn't get to have." ([45:45])

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key events, emotional narratives, and critical insights presented in the "Denice Smith" episode of Snapped: Women Who Murder, offering listeners a thorough understanding of the case without needing to access the original podcast.