Authorities served a search warrant on Wednesday at a residence linked to the man convicted of killing 19-year-old college student Kristin Smart in 1996, according to law enforcement and media reports. Smart's remains have never been found, and she was declared legally dead in 2002. Paul Flores was convicted later that year and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison.
Details of the Search
The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a statement that the search in the central coast town of Arroyo Grande is part of the ongoing investigation into Smart’s disappearance. Public records and reporting by the podcast "Your Own Backyard" indicate that Flores’ mother, Susan Flores, resides at the property.
“The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to bringing Kristin home to her family,” the statement read. “No further information is available.” The podcast, which played a key role in the case by uncovering additional witnesses, first reported the search on Wednesday. Attempts to reach Susan Flores for comment were unsuccessful.
Background of the Case
Kristin Smart vanished from California Polytechnic State University in May 1996. Prosecutors argued that she was killed during an attempted rape, with Flores being the last person seen with her. Flores and his father, Ruben Flores, were arrested in 2021. Authorities alleged that Smart’s remains were buried on Ruben Flores’ property and later moved, but he was acquitted of accessory charges. That property is distinct from the one searched on Wednesday.
Legal Proceedings and Aftermath
Paul Flores was sentenced in March 2023 to prison, where he has been physically attacked at least twice. In 2024, a judge ordered Flores to pay over $350,000 to Smart's family for costs incurred after her death. The family has stated they would waive restitution if Flores disclosed the location of Kristin’s body. Flores’ attorney, Harold Mesick, stated in 2024 that the defense does not know where her remains are. Flores continues to maintain his innocence.
