Eric Smith: Gambling on a Killer | Full Episode

When he was 13 years old, he committed an unthinkable crime. 28 years later, Smith is out on parole. What’s next for him? "48 Hours" contributor Jim Axelrod reports. Watch more full episodes of "48 Hours" on Pluto TV.
"I started covering this case in 1993 as a young producer," says "48 Hours" executive producer Judy Tygard. "One child, Eric Smith, had killed another, Derrick Robie. It would be years before any of us had any real understanding of why. I think of Derrick often and I have long admired the strength and grace of his family. I think of Eric, too, and wonder if he’d gotten help could both boys have been saved."
#48hours #crime #mystery
Crime. Social justice. Impact. "48 Hours" investigates the most intriguing crime and justice cases that touch on all areas of the human experience including greed and passion. "48 Hours," which premiered in 1988, has developed a rich history of original reporting and impact journalism that has helped exonerate wrongly convicted people, caused cold cases to be reopened and solved, and along the way changed lives.
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[@48hours]

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[@Vamasta7163]

He was just a little too YOUNG to leave out of the yard by himself DON’T YA THINK 😢

[@YazzyNikole]

I do NOT think Eric smith has changed!

[@marleysankor]

@48Hours Thank~you for the full episode uploads. 💛

[@marleysankor]

@@YazzyNikole I agree 💯

[@Kat.Evangeline]

@T Collick Yes but I don't blame them. I blame the killer !

[@Mike-kp8ew]

The fact Derrick’s parents stayed together is a true miracle. These things tend to ruin the entire remaining family…Kudos to their Love…

[@flower1990-B]

When it's a strong love, nothing can separate two people.

[@dinarusso3320]

True, but they also realize they have another child to raise that needed them.

[@danielcurtis1434]

@@dinarusso3320 Just lost my loved one Nov 27. The ones left behind can get you through it.

[@painfreesunrise]

their revenge thoughts keep them together it seems... how sad is this? revenge ist not justice! only in the USA it is like that. not in civilized countries.

[@texastea5686]

​@@painfreesunrise explain...

[@shannonmcneely9034]

Sadly I am going through this right now. My son was shot and killed for no reason. He went down to North Carolina to help his sister pack up And move and while doing that he was shot in the head while walking down the street from her house. No reason for it at all. I am destroyed and I miss him so much I barely am able to function . It's only been 4 months since this happened and I struggle to get myself out of my bed every single morning. It's destroyed me and my life. I lost half of my heart and soul with him when he died. I am the mother of 4 children and I'm trying to be strong for my other children. He was my first born son. He was only 29nd his name was Joshua. I miss him every minute of my life. I'll never be the same. My other kids are grown as well but they are destroyed as well. Mommy missy you Josh. We love you from here to heaven and back. My heart goes out to anyone that has lost a child.

[@Jenn4rmblk]

I’m so sorry for your loss. May the peace of God comfort your and your family. And I pray that the perpetrator is brought to justice. In Jesus name. Amen!

[@megalou6567]

I’m so sorry for your and your families loss. I hope one day y’all can find peace

[@aviannawilliams149]

So sorry for the loss of your son. I pray that God will give you the strength to carry on🙏🙏🌹. Also that those who are responsible for your son's death will be found.

[@malloryknox9319]

I’m so so deeply sorry. You’re a very brave, strong person. Thinking of you.

[@cruisepaige]

I’m so very sorry, ma’am.

[@elizabethannegrey6285]

Telling parents of a murdered child to “just get over it” is one of the most heartless things I have ever heard.

[@BosisofSweden]

Well, that is what you tell everybody else, raped, abused and violated people. Some day people need to understand that if there isn't justice for all people or compassion for all people there will be compassion for nobody.

[@spookshow6999]

​@@BosisofSwedenwhat are you talking about? How are you going to tell this random person they talk down to victims. No quit saying this. None of us do that. You're told we do so you believe it.

[@ForageGardener]

​@@BosisofSwedenway to bite your own hand

[@mikejohnson3338]

Elizabeth, I think you mis-heard what you called "heartless" - because nobody said what you claimed. Derrick's mother said: "I know that some people probably think, geez, you should just get over it" - but nobody actually said that to the grieving parents, Liz 🙄

[@iam_crumb]

@@mikejohnson3338 i think she meant the idea of somebody saying something that to the parents is heartless, not that there was a specific time it happened yk

[@samtatge8299]

Dang Eric is a total flat liner. He seems empty. I couldn’t recommend parole after listening to his lifeless monotone. It says a lot.

[@Stiasteny]

“Dad, I want to hurt somebody” really shook me. That suggests to me that it was premeditated and that the poor little boy just happened to be there at the wrong place, at the wrong time…

[@Stiasteny]

Also suggests to me that he knew what he was doing. No way that the little boy wasn’t crying or shouting for his mommy :-(

[@Zaevia]

Something can’t be premeditated and the victim be at the wrong place wrong time. Premeditation would be if the boy knew he would be there.

[@Stiasteny]

@@Zaevia Can’t it be premeditated like: he knew what he was going to do but only needed a younger and smaller target, so he waited on that for days on end outside?

[@Mamabear1320-h4k]

If one of my kids told me that...... he'd be getting professional help asap. RIP Derek

[@akak7380]

​@@Stiastenyno that's not what premeditated is lol

[@franpag2611]

If he doesn't know why he did it, how can he know he won't do it again?

[@jeremysmith9694]

He knows exactly why he did ut

[@brobinson8614]

He doesn't know because he was so young. Nah he's all good. Very unlikely as he was a bullied and frustrated boy who snapped. Those bullies should have been jailed too

[@johnd5398]

Except that he does know why he did it. He said so in the video. You should watch it before you start rambling.

[@nicolataylor8135]

Absolutely .

[@hulamei3117]

Any deep therapy while incarcerated?

[@katywuste9054]

This man shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near a child and him wanting his own children is vert frightening

[@hampantsareharam5489]

TERRIFYING.

[@arabmarsellars7477]

Truly frightening

[@frankpaya690]

Just look at him, He should not breed. Just listen to his arrogance to this day. Most people go through their lives and never take anybody else's life. This person took the life of somebody helpless and did twisted perverted things in the process.

[@glorifiedcookMDMA]

Idiocracy

[@5280girlUSA]

Who in their right mind would want a romantic relationship with that thing?

[@solasgealaglanadh8358]

Even as a child, Eric shows ZERO emotion or remorse. This is a psychopath.

[@rugged04270]

Empathy is something that begins developing at around age 8, emotional regulation takes a lifetime for some, ALL children are psychopaths at first. This is not me saying they are all capable of such violence or anything, but your logic doesn't work.

[@amalgamated-]

@@rugged04270he was far passed the age of understanding empathy for others…he is absolutely a sociopath imo. I council children who have been abused and children that are also abusers themselves.

[@vargodinson]

the fact that he started panicking in the police station debunks the claim that he is a psychopath

[@TigerLily77484]

@@vargodinsonI’m not saying he’s a psychopath but psychopaths do have emotions, they just don’t have empathy.

[@vargodinson]

@@TigerLily77484 thats wrong to, psychopaths are emotional dead thats why they cant stress and become anxious

[@kylemccrate4292]

Psychopaths don't change. They just learn how to blend in better and seem normal

[@hampantsareharam5489]

Yep!

[@iramosv7al415]

There are treatments but I see what you’re saying

[@meowmachine9147]

​@iramosv7al415 Treatment isn't the same as a cure. The vast majority of them can't change and will always be the way they are.

[@iramosv7al415]

@@meowmachine9147 very well then

[@kimberlyharris2774]

Agreed

[@DoobieDeb]

I don't think my anger would go away poor parents my heart breaks for you 💙💙💙

[@fredajordan5704]

Deb I feel the exact same way. Unbelievable what the systemputs these poor parents thru. No justice has been done, he should never been released, never.

[@HarryTzianakisTheGodOfSpeed]

I agree he would be running for ever . Get the hounds ha ha ha 😂🤣

[@pharris6875]

@@fredajordan5704 and he wants to be a father! Oh my goodness.😞 I hope he doesn't get pet's or children!

[@fredajordan5704]

@@pharris6875 I hope for the same. Just frustrating and very upsetting.

[@amandam1137]

mother should have supervised her 4 year old. she should be charged with child neglect and child endangerment.

[@jaded5957]

The idea that this creature has a fiancé and wants to raise a family is chilling. Why should he get to experience a life he denied Derrick? Sickening.

[@barackillbombya3835]

Liberals!

[@lanashelby4527]

The fact that there is a woman who wants to be his fiancé is more concerning. Is she the same sick person who is gonna support his sick desires in future?

[@barackillbombya3835]

@@lanashelby4527 They will probably form a cult.

[@DodgaOfficial]

HE WAS 13!!!

[@jaylucas8352]

That is sick. How could someone think this person is for marriage. Sick. They’ve got that savior complex , think everyone can be saved lol. No, some people are beyond repair. Just the facts of science.

[@eepyJay]

The fact that he at that young age committed this crime on a small child, someone he didn't know, shows he is NOT SAFE to be out in the world. He is DANGEROUS.

[@madeinussr7551]

Exactly. He doesn't know what to do and he can't change what he did . He can stay in jail and serve his sentence like he deserves.

[@luxprotegit]

So much retained anger, aggression and pain. Eric killed Derrick because he represented everything he did not have: a happy home, emotional stability, acceptance and love (the lunch was spilled and the shoes removed to destroy the last traces of this idyllic world that Eric so desperately longed for but could not get imo). For the first time, he controlled the narrative and felt powerful. It remains questionable if he has healed his childhood traumas by now and has full control over his anger if a trigger occurs. No one can look inside his head and no one wants to take the responsibility if another innocent victim gets killed. My deepest sympathy for Derrick's parents. What a heartbreaking story.

[@Tvly2011]

🎯 Eric was covetous of Derrick’s light RIP lil one

[@annagitana1]

Yeah. I mean prison isn’t a place where people get real help.

[@ariadneschneider7986]

Þþ⁵⁶⁶66

[@Slambam73]

Came here to say the same thing; Derrick was everything Eric wasn't and had the life Eric would never have. That drew Eric's attention and rage. Not entirely sure a person like that can be "fixed".

[@C-JZ]

This is true. Many people have this similar times of anger.

[@Anoon]

Feel so bad for Derricks family. What an unbelievable loss at such a young age and so viciously. May he rest in peace.

[@josephsmithmeyer1195]

I thing the mom should be arrested for letting a 3 year old walk a bloke away alone

[@iris-tinabega3023]

Ich finde jeder Mensch sollte eine 2.Chance bekommen aber wer einen anderen Menschen tötet hat das Recht verwirkt jemals wieder glücklich zu sein wenn der andere Tod unter der kalten Erde liegt

[@gfutrhbf]

@@josephsmithmeyer1195 i think she’s paid enough, don’t you think?

[@mirror0images]

*almost 5 year old

[@BenRebekah]

And he killed him for basically no reason. What an evil person at only 13 years old

[@auntkaz815]

Honestly, the fact that he wanted to move back to the community where he tortured and murdered a small child would make me revoke his parole in a heartbeat. It shows a huge lack of compassion and remorse.

[@Bronte866]

What are you talking about? He did not want to move back to that community and nor did he. You must not have paid attention. At all.

[@auntkaz815]

Actually it is you who should go back and listen more closely. It clearly says that when he finally was granted parole he wanted to move back to the community to live with/near his grandparent. It was the parole board that said this would not be a good plan and stopped it. Frankly, if I had been on that parole board this callous “plan” of his would have had me rethinking his parole.

[@TYreLL0416]

​@@Bronte866Never said he died. Said he tortured and murdered children. Pay more attention

[@Arbysroastbeefjuice]

@@Bronte866Are you that fiancé of this murderer?

[@Mia-es1rp]

​@Arbys608 she must be

[@imasongdude]

This Monster had no sign of compassion or sadness. His expression was Blank. His eyes were front and dark. He is a bad seed. I pray he does not act out again. What this poor family had to endure should never happen to anyone. I pray for them and their healing.

[@foxmulder130]

Why did you capitalize blank?

[@scarlett1854]

I’m so sorry to Derek’s parents 😢. I don’t think anyone would expect them to “get over it.”

[@Donscottmusic]

To make matters worse...as I am writing this reply to your comment, this murdering monster is as free as bird right now, walking among us.

[@Cris_the_coder]

​@@Donscottmusic he did his time stop the hate. I don't expect the parents to get over it but please quit looking at people who have made mistakes in the past as all evil there is some that are really trying to better them selves and this hate isn't good for anyone. Time heals and I hope the family the best....

[@dguarino6586]

Especially when it was them who allowed their four-year-old child to walk down the streets unattended. You think it isn't going to happen to you.

[@ironvlogger9712]

@@dguarino6586 it was a different time back then. You could still let your kids out and about. You didn't have to be so watchful. You could loosen the reins a bit as a parent. I think this case marks the time when this started to change. At least in America. Back then, this sort of thing was unheard of. Now it's not. Particularly in the details of this case.....another kid tormenting and then somdomizing another.....

[@heatherprivatecraftandchat3345]

@@Cris_the_coder idiot

[@maredithevans2595]

I believe some people can’t be rehabilitated. I don’t think everyone can just be fixed. Pedophiles, psychopaths, sadists. Some people are born with such an innate desire to control or harm, there’s nothing you can do to change it.

[@eabeloth7035]

R4pists.....

[@dguarino6586]

Predators drive around towns just waiting for some small child to walk by unattended. Those parents are partly to blame for neglecting to keep their child safe.

[@deannaofcourse8443]

@@dguarino6586 I agree where we're the parents when this little boy got killed

[@idorus]

@@dguarino6586 no they aren't. this could happen to any child at any time even if they are being watched. there are many cases where a parent loses a child for a second and ends up in the child being murdered. the only person to blame is the one who killed the kid. you have an empathy problem

[@bill2066]

Christ can and does change that. Not Always, of course. But it happens. Just my two cents

[@howiewill]

Bc he violated that baby he should be registered as a sexual predator as well imo. He shouldn’t be allowed to be near ANY children

[@Hippidippimahm]

We didn’t have the sex offender registry back then. Google is free

[@StofStuiver]

It wasnt about sex

[@blue-vv3rd]

​@@StofStuiver Um, so?

[@StofStuiver]

@@blue-vv3rd If its not about sex, its not a sex offence.

[@Da_bear-ij9gm]

@@StofStuivernot true and irrelevant

[@JackiMareena]

What's going to happen when Eric Smith who's never had interactions with females gets rejected? What's going to happen when he's at a bar and somebody picks a fight with him? How is he going to react when he's going to encounter the same bullies that he killed for all those years ago because the world is full of bullies

[@Falconer22]

Same as every other incel.

[@JosieOxx5]

Exactly what I was thinking it's sad and so unfortunate he most definitely took his anger out on that sweet little boy he's weak! it's a shame hope he meets his match

[@Tamara-id1pe]

Derrick Robie was such a bright and beautiful boy, and I can't help but think of how terrified he must have been. I'm so happy to see that his parents held onto one another and Dalton through these most difficult years. May they all find peace in this next stage of life and be reunited with Derrick one day on the bright side of the road

[@lesilmcguire4690]

Yes ❤

[@kellyharris6968]

Lovely comment ❤

[@sixslinger9951]

What kind of woman would want to marry this evil monster?

[@jzloveinfinite]

Now that's the golden question!

[@azpersonal]

I am ashamed of her!

[@Shaz-gq7pv]

Ted bundy got married in the court room and him, Jeff Dahmer and many other seriel killers got fan mail. Unfortunately there's some very strange people who are attracted to monsters

[@cya2139]

Oh they’re out there Scores of them

[@Deborahtunes]

More than likely out of desperation...

[@RachOfSunshine]

Uggghhhh I love that whenever the dad is too chocked up to speak, his wife jumps in. Talk about partnership and having your back 🥺❤️

[@MilkyStrawb3rry]

It's really sweet I'm glad they're still together ❤

[@rameshrolla1574]

The way she said it is so casual...no emotion what so ever

[@billydakid71]

They don't make women like these anymore they too damage now.

[@RachOfSunshine]

@@rameshrolla1574 sometimes with trauma you have to detach in order to continue life. Otherwise you would want to end it all 🥺 but I can see how it comes off

[@rachelcooney9150]

What did she say though? I still can’t make out what she’s talking about at 8:27.

[@CactusFace321]

That guy shouldn't be free. He destroyed a whole family.

[@Kellyzebras713]

I get that this murderer was very young. But if he’s doing this for pleasure then, imagine what he’s capable of now. I don’t think he should have ever been released. Sadistic psychopathic crimes like this don’t just magically leave the fantasy world in their minds. It’s forever.

[@conniesmith9732]

He didn't do it for pleasure, he was a severely bullied child who by definition cannot be a psychopath because a child can't consent . He can't be held to adult qualifications of knowing right and wrong in the same way adults are. He felt like he wanted to hurt someone - because when boys/men are hurt it 99% of the time surfaces as anger instead. He took it out on someone who wouldn't hurt him back . Illegal. Atrocious. Heartbreaking. ... but still. ..2 children. Some of you commenting obviously are un/ under educated on not only pediatric psychology but in personal experience of a childhood of torture - that's what bullying is. That is what it feels like as a child. You quickly forget/ ignore how children see the world. One day seems like it is the rest of life ... and you react without thinking as an adult! We all do to some extent! Just get education on ALL branches of an issue before you throw all your passion into an opinion.

[@iwuvpiesgaming9164]

@@conniesmith9732he’s 13 he’s old enough to know right from wrong regardless if he was bullied. The other is four I would agree with you if he was younger but the guy was 13! Not 4, 5 or 6 but 13

[@cheeriosforhonkies8867]

@@conniesmith9732 🙄🙄🙄

[@rantab2443]

​​@@iwuvpiesgaming9164 13y would definitely know right from wrong, but for him everybody was doing the wrong thing bullying him and still gets away from it, he wanted to try it, that's just reminds us what role does the education system plays, if they would've punish kids who bullied other kids he would've been able to understand the consequences of his behavior

[@iwuvpiesgaming9164]

@@rantab2443 he understands the consequences.

[@alexisfagan9604]

Eric's anger was absolutely directed at Derrick. If it was directed towards other kid's that had bullied him, then he would have attacked them. Eric saw a cute little blonde haired boy, sweet kid, good personality, was well liked by others, and Eric became jealous. This wasn't about revenge this was Eric wanting to destroy someone out of jealousy.

[@pasha5751]

I agree!! & him being the coward he was/is he picked a baby that he knew he could overpower!

[@curtisfrierson5596]

I said almost the exact same thing earlier in these comments, but for a somewhat different reason

[@SunnyDiegoProduction]

Obviously Eric couldn’t fight back against his bully, so he went after Derrick who looked like him but was easier to beat up. He wasn’t stalking Derrick waiting to find him alone lol this was a crime if opportunity, he got triggered by a cute blonde boy that resembled his bully.

[@yourmommashouse]

That doesn’t even matter, he did what he did, plain and simple. Life no parole, end of story.

[@ajaxslamgoody9736]

yep but as a professional in this particular area, the red head would have killed some other little kid if Derrick hadn't been there. What tips this off...the Sodomy and Red interjecting himself into the 'helping' the police (which is part of psychopathy of 'enjoying this 'deed'). 2 of the biggest signs of sexual serial killer.

[@riostampede9033]

What he did to Derrick made my stomach churn. How horrible to imagine a sweet innocent little boy suffering and dying like that. That is terrifying that man is now back on the streets and my heart breaks for Derricks parents.

[@Unbreakable245]

He was 13 In my country he wouldn't even have been charged and i think my country is doing it right because i do not believe in locking up 13 year olds, a 15 year old maybe but not a 13 year old

[@lesleyrussell8200]

he sufered bullying at school as a child and it may be that he killed that boy as revenge he was physically like those who attacked him,,

[@cutthewicked]

the mark or cain. he's got it honest.

[@bornwithbsguards]

​@@cutthewicked you think it's gingers? I wondered. They are not that common and many of them are very mischievous...

[@stacie7766]

​@@bornwithbsguards What??? You can't be serious.

[@frankpaya690]

So Eric Smith wants to get married, have kids, hold down a job and live the American dream- there's something sociopathic about that coming from him, his victim never had that chance- all because of Derek taking his frustrations out on somebody who had nothing to do with him having been bullied.

[@eldajackson1]

Dad & Mom are two beautiful people. The community support to this family is touching.

[@jonyemm]

Pretty sure they said the stepdad molested the little boys sister. If that's the case as far as I'm concerned he should be in the ground.

[@lesleyrussell8200]

at this days a kid cant go alone anywere,they have to be closer to an adult parent or guardian,,

[@lesleyrussell8200]

i remember my granddad going always with me as a kid

[@tommyboyraider3555]

What kind of "parents" let a 4 year old walk alone down a street? No one deserves this kind of pain but give me a break. My mom didn't let me walk alone until probably around 10 or 11, 4 is still basically a baby. "It was the first ever time I let him walk alone." Horrible parents.

[@johnnabuzby6103]

My mama wouldn't have ever let me out of her sight when I was 4 years old, and that was in 1971. Heck, I was almost 12 before she even let me ride my bike to school and it was only one street over and down a ways from our house...we live in a small town too. She (mama) even put me in daycare at 11 - 12 years old. When I became a mother myself, to two sons, mama would tell me "don't you ever let them out of your sight" even after they were up into their teens and she would've skinned me alive if I had let one of my sons walk down the street by himself at 4 years old.

[@tunazzinamehjabin5118]

Someone who is capable of committing such brutality at such a young age is definitely going to be able to replicate that as an adult. God forbid what is coming to the fate of some other innocent child!

[@jaylucas8352]

Total savage, disgusting

[@evoluckievo]

man that child was HAPPY and to think that he could have parole

[@hitzz2304]

Absolutely, all's it takes is some trigger in his mind and boom. Can happen anytime just when

[@BirdieSueA]

I have to wonder if Eric Smith was ever tested for Fragile X syndrome?

[@tunazzinamehjabin5118]

@@BirdieSueA Possibly not. He is pretty intelligent, manipulative and not to mention- violent. People with Fragile X syndrome usually suffer from moderate to severe mental retardation- to the extent that they could not go to a regular school, and they are non-violent. Plus- his physical features do not really match the textbook criteria.

[@crimsonclover9871]

That sweet baby had such a bright and beautiful smile. Seeing him so happy with the kittens, fishing and holding his baby brother has me quite tearful. RIP, sweet angel..💜

[@PoppaPlacidPenis]

You into younger men?

[@heidiberg3994]

What an amazing, beautiful couple. You can see the love between them. It’s so rare that a couple will stay together after the loss of a child, and they did. This was a very touching story….really pulled at my heart.

[@LKCLifer]

I'm so impressed that the Robie's didn't let this monster destroy their marriage. Losing a child and marriage falling apart you tend to hear more about then not. Their love looks strong and happy even though this tragedy has happened to them. God bless and let the healing finally begin.

[@voraciousreader3341]

Well, if you look at the national divorce rate for people who don’t have their children murdered, divorce between people who have such a traumatic and senseless loss when they’re young adults wouldn’t be surprising. The problem is that parents tend to isolate themselves in their grief when they lose a child at any age. and silent embargoes on topics of conversation can drastically limit communication, which is the most important channel to keep open at that point. I’m so glad that Derrick’s mother didn’t blame herself and beat herself up forever, and of his father, because he didn’t harbor blame against her for letting Derrick walk alone. Absent Eric Smith, there was absolutely no danger she could have foreseen! As a psychologist, I know that blaming is stupid and never solves anything, but grieving parents can unconsciously see it as a strong emotion which distracts them from their loss. These are two very psychologically healthy people, who were amazingly that way when they were so young, and they had been loved and nurtured as children and knew how to apply that to each other when they needed to. And having to fight for Derrick every 2 years gave them a constant common fight, something they could _do_ together, it gave them a focus for their rage and grief, so I think that, however painful that was for them, those parole hearings may have been a blessing in disguise.

[@lapinchechismosa]

God would want you to forgive this kid

[@jamestaylor5341]

He was a mentally ill 13 year old boy that was bullied relentlessly and brutally for years and just snapped. The little boy is never coming back even if Smith was sent to the electric chair.

[@robertmoss5360]

Parent's fault for leaving the child alone

[@ky1ebetts]

Pretty sure that marriage is what destroys most marriages. Just sayin..

[@fromn.y.top.r.5889]

This is a parents worse nightmare. You never get over something like this. I feel so horrible for the parents and family.

[@mnschoen]

Poor parents. It must be hard to know you let your four year old walk out the door and then pretend that anything that happens to him isn't your fault. I hope they feel guilty. They should feel guilty. HE WAS FOUR.

[@hakimbandaru1915]

He should have never been released from prison.

[@clubfillerspinkknickers9791]

Big pun is the goat

[@LalaaCherry]

@@mnschoen I'm sure they do, I get that back then the world wasn't as dangerous, but 4 years old!?!? That insane! You can't let a 4 year old out of your sight!

[@fromn.y.top.r.5889]

@@WeezyF23 alone up the street at five was not a good choice. But that's one horrible way to learn a lesson. I'm glad both parents are still together. When I look back, I remember a few times I let my daughter walk to school with friends when she was only about ten and now I regret it. Nothing ever happened but it's just better as a parent to never leave children alone.

[@Torgo-and-the-Lucifer-Cat]

I know he was a kid. But when you learn what he did to that child you can't believe for a moment he should be EVER let out. Would you want him to live next to you, your kids? He also tried to find out what the cops knew, does that sound like he didn't know what he was doing??

[@awkwardautistic]

He's been out and hasn't killed anyone else.

[@Torgo-and-the-Lucifer-Cat]

@@awkwardautistic how do you know? Have you been watching him 24/7? How do you know he won't in the future? Would you let him live next to you and your kids??

[@laurenmay2098]

In my country it is common. Minors do not go to prison. So let it be, he won’t do it again. There are many kids that go to the places for rehabilitation and they do not reoffend. Of course there are the ones that do it, but Eric deserves a chance.

[@BlockchainToTheFace]

@@awkwardautistic YET

[@Torgo-and-the-Lucifer-Cat]

@@m.k3281 I was a bullied kid and I hated it. Never wanted to bully others. Also, "knowed"? Lol

[@kellycuckoo3143]

I grew up in the 80s, and had a lot of freedom as a child. In my adventures I happened to come across quite a few men who would do me harm. I learned early on, I would not let my children have that freedom. Children are not capable of handling these situations. I didn’t know what to do or where to go. I was only fortunate they didn’t pursue me further. Even aging as a 14 year old girl didn’t help me in these situations. As a woman who has survived muggings, and rape the only thing that equips me for it today are my weapons. This world is too dangerous for children to be alone, ever.

[@Ettibridget]

That certainly depends on where you live.

[@kellycuckoo3143]

@@Ettibridget that’s a joke considering in this day and time, it’s literally everywhere. Noone is exempt in these days of lawlessness.

[@Ettibridget]

How are they supposed to grow up and become independent adults then? No offense but that's nonsens. I started walking alone to my friend's house age three. Not all countries are like the US you know.

[@kellycuckoo3143]

@@Ettibridget yeah their worse. Statistically proves it as well. Yes, you have to let them go at some point, and I think driving age is appropriate. Not a whole lot of choices after that anyways. Regardless the message is to stop allowing these young children to be alone, period.

[@nickdedivanaj]

The 70s and 80s made it absolutely necessary to be helicopter parents

[@bellezanegra0206]

Never let a 4 year old walk anywhere alone. You never know what monsters are lurking.

[@Itsanawfulwasteofspace]

I was thinking the same thing. 😢

[@skinsciencebymira]

Things were much more relaxed then. At age 8 I would out front with my 4 year old brother or across the street with our neighbors. Now I wouldn’t let my own child do that.

[@niftynic115]

Times were so different then. I was in 2nd grade when this happened. We (every kid on my block) were out daylight to dark, my mom knew I was outside somewhere on the cul-da-sac. I walked to and from school every day and this was a in suburb of Denver.

[@askiaabdul-salaam6944]

I am 42 and I don't know what the people in ur comment section are talking about when they say that the times were more relax back then. The late 80's and the early 90's had some of the highest kidnapping cases in history. There were so many kidnappings of children back then that every week you would see another picture of a missing child posted on the back of milk cartons. (Milk cartons were like social media) My mother would have never allowed me to travel anywhere at age 4 without being with her or another adult or older child

[@roysmythe3760]

I agree with this statement, why tempt fate? His mother's decision that day left that unprotected he cold of been run over by a car and died . Who's fault is it?

[@blacksheep8227]

Got over my rage without killing or harming another living creature. And I had some pretty hard times when I was young. Yet I never hurt anybody because I have a conscience and I know the difference between right and wrong.

[@lj6079]

May your past stay in the past and your present and future are full of happiness 🙏

[@linnerellie209]

No two people are the same

[@lj6079]

@@linnerellie209 true but some will walk the right path and some the wrong path

[@JazzyJae88]

That’s you though. We already know hurt people sometimes hurt people. I’m happy you found peace.

[@loriannrichardson7644]

Everyone is not the same. I'm certain there are acts you've committed, things you've said, that others would never do.

[@davidjones702]

As a father of a young kid. My heart aches. I couldn't imagine living life without my little guy. This story brought me to tears.

[@davidjones702]

@@ariannejc thank you. God bless you and your family as well.

[@kittykat8177]

As an unmarried, child-less mum, destiny has not blessed me with what you have. My heart hurts when I hear about children in this context. Keep your little guy close, you are so lucky, I can imagine what a cheeky treasure your baby is. Somehow your comment showed me a little, excited, squealing boy, jungle-gymin' on u, it's a precious picture. Bless u both x

[@Justinsatiable]

Same. Just thinking about it was overwhelming

[@bobbymitchem]

Same here, I have 2 boys and I would give up the will to live!

[@JT-xp3in]

dont cry to us about your weakness bruh. Man up and protect your family like a father should.

[@Rukilawal]

He became worse than his bullies. He became a murderer

[@StofStuiver]

Thats what bullying does.

[@StofStuiver]

@@JuMow_ Smoking can do harm. Still, smoking rarely kills someone.

[@boopah4365]

How are Derricks parents not allowed at Erics parole hearings?! They are victims and they should be allowed to give impact statements and confront the man that hurt their boy.

[@lindasharp8523]

Derrick was a victim of his parents useless caring. Who lets a 4 year old out of their sight. Crazy. Shouldnt be allowed to have kids.

[@kp5496]

I just saw an interview with them say (guess that’s why this popped up on my algorithm) but the mother said that this is horrible for them. He killed a kid and knew it was wrong. Sorry bud. Better luck in the next life because this one you gotta stay imprisoned for. He would absolutely do it again. He’s just spending time very behaving so they let him out to do it again. He learned the tricks he needs. Even the parole board questions his truthfulness. He’s giving signs he’s faking it and should remain imprisoned.

[@kp5496]

They go to parole meeting every 2 years

[@kp5496]

Interviewer said every 2 years must feel like every 10 mins to them

[@manichairdo9265]

​@@emiliocasillas694 INSANE! cruel comment.

[@zeebs5668]

Mrs. Robie, no one, not one single soul is thinking "just get over this and move on". NO ONE......praying for your family, you guys are so strong and Derrick was the sweetest child. He did not deserve this. Eric Smith is a psycho

[@lr0479]

Such a sad story, sobbing for these parents. I once let my 5 year old walk off with a friend at the fair while I waited in line to get food. All of a sudden I got the worst panic attack and ran through the crowd practically knocking people over till my eyes picked him out of the crowd. My friend had two other kids with her and I always wonder if she might’ve lost sight of him at some point because his soul called out to me just like Derricks mom. When I got to my son I was drenched in sweat from panic, just those 5 mins were awful I just can’t imagine this family’s pain.

[@lovemusic1963ify]

Your child is blessed to have you for a parent.

[@joshbautista6892]

No ypur a bad mom why would ypu let ypur baby whos still a baby walk off alone, are you stupid, your obky lucky something didn't happen but that is testament to what a dumb terrible horrible mother you are.. how dumb are you I never let my baby's out of my arms or sight until they were 16 and even then I bought panicky buttons and tracked theyre phones so I always know where they are, your a bad mom period ypur lucky ypur kids alive, God mothers out here are so dumb

[@SimpleLifeAlways81]

I lost my son for a few minutes at cherry creek arts festival … the worse, absolutely the WORST feeling in my whole entire life. I am serious - the worse.

[@teacupolous]

That parental love is nothing to play with. The footage of the parents talking about little Derrick is so visceral.

[@robbypro3370]

How could she just let him go to the park by himself at 4 yrs 10 months old? Unbelievable.

[@barneyronnie]

He took a life; therefore, he shouldn't have a life!!

[@GEOMETRICINK]

This story has haunted my mother her entire life. It affected her the same way Sandy Hook affected me. My little brother was the exact same age as Derrick when this happened and they looked so much alike. She still talks about it to this day. She wouldn’t let us go ANYWHERE alone after this. We couldn’t play in our neighborhood without direct supervision any longer. Looking at my brother and the amazing life he has, married for a decade, with a newborn baby boy. It’s just so sad, beyond sad, thinking about the life that was so senselessly taken. Derrick would have done great things.

[@sirdopaminesjournal3292]

Did she let you go places alone _before_ that? I mean, are you aware that Derrek wasn't the first kid who wandered off and something bad happened, right? Kids have been abducted before your grandmother was born. Why did it take _this_ case for you mother to have the genius idea not to let her kids walk around by themselves? Give your mother your keyboard. I want to talk to her.

[@alamont7347]

​@@sirdopaminesjournal3292 His mom shouldve never let him walk alone. I would never let my 5 yr old leave the house alone, that's way too young. Her bad parenting cost him his life SMH 🤦🏾‍♂️

[@rachellicee2380]

Have you ever seen ' We need to talk about Sandy Hook" ... a very comforting film.

[@Sol-Cutta]

Could have done wonderful things.. not would of...no disrespect.

[@Fluffy-Fluffy]

​@@sirdopaminesjournal3292 it's sad that in the US it has come to this. In my country kids play outside alone all the time if they are over the age of 3-4. I hope it can stay that way.

[@badgurl5758]

If Eric’s sister testified that she was molested by her stepfather, wtf is Eric’s mother still will him during the trial. That speaks volumes to what was going on in that home and you wonder why your son became a killer. Derek is the victim here!. Rest Easy 💔

[@bighead7317]

Literally!

[@kiwimema4300]

Exactly, don’t blame the kid until you have all the facts.

[@bighead7317]

@@kiwimema4300 either he was molested but honestly I'm starting to think maybe by the mother...cause who would stay with a man that touched their child unless they doing it too...i just don't know

[@couldbegood]

For him to know about sodomy, I’m sure he was abused himself

[@bighead7317]

@@couldbegood definitely he was exposed to the act. What about the biological dad? Not sure if mention of him was made at all

[@hensonlaura]

This mother's poise is extremely impressive; heart breaks for the parents.

[@Spooky_515]

Both parents are admirable. I can’t imagine how they did it. We all can find inspiration from them.

[@144Souldier]

Who let's a 4 year old walk off by themselves

[@tammylargent8543]

Exactly!!!

[@wondermot2780]

100% agree

[@louisejones5773]

​@@144Souldier that's all he was?

[@KeyDyer]

no feelings of anything for that sick dude. this is absolutely heartbreaking and its a shame hes out and breathing

[@mom2babygkaterad946]

Eric’s bad attitude & angry demeanor remains the same in my opinion. Even after 30 years he seems to have absolutely NO remorse, as if “the world owes him something”. Not only did he destroy & steal Derrick’s life, he changed Derrick’s family’s lives forever. They will NEVER know who he could’ve become. Eric WILL reoffend, if he hasn’t done so already & no one has connected it to him…………yet. Rest in Peace sweet little Derrick. Forever young.💔😔🥀🕊️

[@amandam1137]

mother should have supervised her 4 year old. she should be charged with child neglect and child endangerment.

[@anicatt]

Do you know him? Personally

[@mom2babygkaterad946]

@@anicatt Do you? This forum allows for me to opine, hence the words “seems”, “in my opinion”…..

[@zariballard]

@@anicatt Don't need to know him personally. You can't rehabilitate a psychopath or sociopath. I felt horrible for Eric's family at the trial but the kid is/was a bad seed. It happens. There's no place for him and others like him on this planet. I can't believe he's out in society. As a mom, I'd have to take care of it and take the consequences.

[@anicatt]

@@zariballard Totally agreed with your comment, people like him shouldn’t be allow to have kids he is incapable to feel remorse for his actions stay vigilant know your neighbor

[@love.wildly.live.fearlessly]

The fact he asked for help explaining he had so much rage inside him he wanted to hurt someone and try why didn’t get him help immediately is ridiculous. The parents should be tried for not helping him.

[@lambsquad_9047]

Derricks blood is on their hands.

[@AutomHatter]

I think now-a-days parents are more likely to get their children help, which is great. It was different back then, though of course not impossible. Just much less likely. So sad, but glad we have improved in that regard as a society.

[@Dementia-Gaming938]

I'm sorry, the law system just doesn't work that way.

[@naomishindou7197]

@@AutomHatter Nah....nowadays its "Billy is a good kid, he'd never do that.'' Or Billy kills puppies, so parents order xanax and ignore it boys will be boys until he randomly shoot ups some event...then he's a ''good Christian boy'' with no violent past...

[@hensonlaura]

People aren't perfect, we all make mistakes every day. It's impossible to forsee everything & expecting perfection is childish.

[@ninaninapasadena5687]

That video of Derek excited to show his Dad the fish that he caught got me so bad. RIP sweet angel. No child deserves what happened to you.

[@Bronte866]

I always amused when someone points out that a murdered child “didn’t deserve it.”

[@joeljose5149]

It's not fair, this monster took away a little kid life and he get's a second opportunity something that poor little kid cannot. Shame on the parole board.

[@magdadarosadesert354]

There should be no parole for heinous crimes.

[@joaquimrodriguez8961]

Committed by a child, what 's next, the execution of children?... Yeah??

[@paradisesunprincess]

He was a child! Smh. You people are so unforgiving

[@magdadarosadesert354]

@@paradisesunprincess it's not about forgiveness. It's about the general public's safety.

[@lisawalls1007]

If it was her kid That was murdered Would she be saying that? But he's not her child that was murdered. So it's easy for her to say! I agree with you

[@Rachel_Ryder]

@@paradisesunprincessor maybe you’re mentally ill to believe such an unfathomable crime deserves a chance at freedom, eh?

[@danielbrown1724]

The things he did to that poor kid, unbelievable. Trust me, rehabilitated or not, these types of acts and urges don’t just dissipate. He’s still a sociopath It wouldn’t surprise me if he harms another kid now that he’s out. Keep your doors locked and your children safe from this guy. He’s dangerous!!!

[@letsgobrandon6281]

And you know this how?

[@Gaelicgirl725]

Eric M. Smith is a psychopath who told the parole board what he knew would get him released. Psychopaths don't "learn compassion", they learn to mask themselves better. He will always be a danger to society, and more specifically, to young children. I cannot believe they let him out -- enabling him to commit more crimes. Beyond disgusting!

[@meleasepolete7509]

ITS THE MOTHER FAULT LETTING HIM WALKED DOWN THE STREET ALONG! She needs be in prison also !

[@brobinson8614]

Yes they do, I used to want to be nasty as a child and as an adult I feel the opposite

[@2stroketyson79]

@@letsgobrandon6281 he doesnt he is just following the crowd

[@brianmoorad5063]

That boy is pure evil I believe he’ll do it again if he could get away with it and something about him that I don’t trust looking into his eyes give me goosebumps his remorse is so fake

[@annettehovey6105]

I Agree

[@cosmicmuffin322]

There's no proof that someone like him can ever be rehabilitated. So letting him out in society is a political decision, a completely unscientific decision.

[@xavierlucky397]

You dont see or know a thing lmao

[@TransitionedToAShark]

He’s changed. You get locked up that long as a child it changes you

[@wilkby]

@@TransitionedToAShark He should have remained a changed man in a minimum security prison someplace.

[@applesidertea]

The saddest part was Derrick’s parents talking about white ice cream with sprinkles. They seem like such sincere, loving people-just like their sweet little boy was in the footage. Derrick’s happiness and joy are what attracted Eric’s homicidal attention-and that’s! what you call a psychopath. Period.

[@blufoxuwu]

I commented something similar on another comment on this video, but I live in Steuben county and Derrick's father used to be one of my teachers in high school. You're correct about them being sincere, loving people - Mr. Robie was one of the kindest, most understanding and accepting teachers I had. His class was probably my favorite throughout all of high school.

[@BettyLucille]

I went to school with the couple’s younger son and I can assure you that they are great people. Even in such tragedy they stayed together as a family. I can only imagine that they felt broken, but they were better together.

[@danahsutton101]

Maybe Burke Ramsey murdered his sister Jon.

[@chrismillerfitness]

The saddest part is that Eric is still alive and that Derek’s Dad didn’t take him out the second he was free! What a beta male

[@Tiffany-Rose]

Or that's what you call a child with severe trauma who doesn't get the help and support he needs to direct all that anger, rage and emotion into something else, something helpful instead of hurting someone. Whether people like it or not Eric was a child too. Kids don't just wake up one day out of the blue and say "I'm gonna ☠️ someone." There are reasons this happens, usually many events piled on top of each other that lead to this. He ultimately was the one who took Derrick's life but there are others who have some responsibility for letting it get to that point.

[@jeanprice2514]

Awe. Poor baby. Look how happy he looked playing with the kittens. So tragic.

[@daniellelightfoot8394]

The video of him showing off his fish 🎣 he caught to his Dad broke me. You could hear the pain in Dad’s voice as he tried to get the words out to explain his grief, my eyes began to tear up as he looked to his wife who naturally spoke for him as if this topic will always be hard for him to speak on. It was something she has had to say for him before because there is so many things he wasn’t able to do with his son and that is something that will never change. A bound between a father and son is a lifetime of learning and teaching. I feel so horrible for his parents as well as his siblings.

[@misskiraly69]

Yes exactly, I actually played that moment back immediately when seeing it. The lovelyness of this child...what a horror to have lost him. Lovely parents too. Sending good vibes to them🙂🙏

[@frances4797]

Meanwhile, Eric was torturing & killing kittens 😢

[@frostedsleet3124]

Amazing the couple was able to keep their marriage intact. Good to see.

[@theadventuresoffatbarbie3021]

Idgaf if the killer was a kid, he was a sick kid not fit for society obviously, He should of never saw the light of day, maybe even given the death penalty, he was a bad seed there is no rehabilitation for that…justice in America is a joke

[@hannahlowe794]

Having your four year old son taken away from you by anyone, let alone another kid, it’s unfathomable. I’m so sorry for the parents. It’s heartbreaking, absolutely heartbreaking.

[@adamskiyo]

Well said sweet Hannah

[@kitsune090]

Another kid? Do you know the meaning of the word TEEN? the murderer was THIRTEEN and the victim FOUR! do you know the difference? the murderer had the capacity to do the heinous crime and know it was wrong, something he would never if he was only a 4 years old child himself... he wasn't a kid and he was sentenced accordingly!

[@hannahlowe794]

@@kitsune090 he was a minor and he looked very small. He was 13, cusp into an adulthood. I was immature at 13. If you’re under the age of 18, you’re not an adult, but another kid. He should’ve a longer sentence, but he didn’t.

[@SalimMahmood-killuminati]

but he murdered a child...every youngster that kills should be locked up for life!

[@hannahlowe794]

@@SalimMahmood-killuminati yeah, I said he should’ve gotten a longer sentence.

[@lighttheway5088]

Whenever he talks about killing that poor child, there’s almost a flash of pride that goes over his face. Nauseating to watch him

[@miriamart9712]

Because that is what he is know for, he has embarrassed that demon that will haunt him for ever

[@davidg5759]

God knows ones true intention and will judge based of someone's heart. We may be easily fooled by God sees all

[@dinarusso3320]

Not sure if it helps but if Eric's parents tried getting psychiatric help, and medication he might not have done it, or maybe he wouldn't

[@MypronounIsKing]

He was basically raised in prison for all we know that’s the only thing anyone values around him since he was young, this situation has completely dominated his life

[@ellenkirkpatrick887]

My heart goes out to little Derrick. I'm so glad that his mum and dad marriage survived this.

[@kimthomas8717]

My middle son is only a few months difference in age as Derrick was. He’s now 35 and married . My heart just goes out to his parents .. our children are precious , and theirs was robbed from them in a horrible way . I truly can’t imagine . They say he’s changed but what’s in him to do that I believe is still in him just hidden better. Rest in heaven Derrick

[@pmd7771969]

You don't rest in heaven

[@kimthomas8717]

@@pmd7771969 ok run joyfully in heaven , whatever

[@tuneaddicted]

A heart wrenching story from every angle. Derricks parents are truly amazing

[@nellyvieira9496]

yeah. such amazing parents they allow a 4yr old to go off to the park all by himself. yes indeed! an example for all parents. the parents are equally responsible for his death... negligence to the extreme

[@misterg1157]

31:00 Eric Smith: “I’m not the same person. There’s not a day that goes by when I am not forced to remember what I did”. It’s all about you, isn’t it? Poor, poor you. 31:58 “There’s nothing I can do to bring him back. If I could switch places with him and take the grave for him to live, I would do it in a second”. OK, do it. Take his place in a grave. No, it won’t bring him back but it will test your sincerity. If you don’t do it then this and every future Parole Board knows that they can never believe a word you say. I think I should be on the Parole Board.

[@sexi8784]

@@nellyvieira9496 unhelpful comment. Eric would have killed somebody else.

[@kinggkongg9694]

This story never gets easier to hear Derrick seemed like such a super sweet selfless kids. RIP LITTLE ANGEL

[@pmd7771969]

People don't rest in heaven

[@indigorose1270]

After reading the cause of death that poor baby went through. And the horrific things that occurred. He should have received life without the possibility of parole.

[@evepoole3966]

Rehabilitation should come first then punishment, don't give in to your base desires for vergence and blood

[@Buckeye2043]

@@evepoole3966 rotflmao no. This thinking is the reason laws are getting softer. Just judging a book by its cover (profile pic) you’d probably say the same for Richard Ramirez.

[@evepoole3966]

@@Buckeye2043 keep him in prison but rehabilitation should still be priority even for him

[@hekter2364]

@@evepoole3966 Lets see you keep that same energy when that happens to your kids

[@evepoole3966]

@@hekter2364 I have no doubt I'd be angry, that's why the justice system isn't up to one person lol rehabilitation should be first priority and just because they are rehabilitated doesn't mean they get out of jail but also remember this guy was a kid when he went in and kids are the most likely of all people to be rehabilitated

[@SunFlower-x3]

That fish 🐟 he caught was the cutest moment. The fact that he gave his mom a home run was beautiful. RIP D.

[@pmd7771969]

He's alive in heaven, not resting

[@mpalmer7800]

My question is what drives especially such a young boy to commit such a heinous crime?

[@jr7845]

Born evil

[@shahwilloughby4603]

I honestly think in this case that Eric was picked on and was a lonely kid. I think he saw that little blonde boy and wanted to hurt him like others had hurt HIM.

[@chefjames3361]

Our society and value systems were changing, but we had ignored a lot of deviancies in the 80's by that point.

[@piper_lori-williams-tudhope]

That’s the million dollar question! There are so many factors involved.

[@phillipsmom6252]

Just born evil.

[@cob4467]

He should not be released ,ever, the crime was horrific, he knew what he was doing. My heart goes out to the little boys family. R.I.P Derek.

[@MrColebiz1]

Sadly he was released last year.

[@Unbreakable245]

What are you talking about a 13 year old shouldn't even be held criminally responsible Locking up a 13 year old is a violation of children's rights if you did not know Raise the age of criminal responsibility to 15

[@justinedse8435]

​@@Unbreakable245Of course they should be held liable! LIFE SENTENCE

[@ChrissyNicole370]

@@Unbreakable245 would you still feel this way if he brutally murdered your child ?

[@Bl0ndB0mb]

Life for a 13yo is overboard. Sorry, not sorry. Their brains are literally not even fully formed. He did 30 solid years locked up, far more than most who get a “life sentence”. He’s done his time.

[@TiffanyStarr2141]

I think it's beautiful that Eric's great grandpa helped with the ball field in Derrick's memory.

[@onemillionpercent]

yes!!

[@dinarusso3320]

I feel sorry for Eric's family, it's not their fault. They never wanted something like that to happen.

[@krisquigley4497]

@@dinarusso3320 They saw the warning signs - hurting animals for example - and did nothing. So yes, it is on them.

[@amieanderson1119]

The great grandpa did cannot helped what devil act of his grandson to the boy. They did nothing to helped their grandson to be hospitalized. And when the verdict came eruc family said he was mentally sick they knew but they did nothing

[@TrumpLovesSuckingOnJoesBalls]

@krisquigley4497 what about Derrick parents. They're to blame to. Who let's there 5 year old walk home alone. Bad parenting on their part. If they would have supervised their kid. He'd still be here today. Bad parents on both sides.

[@theessentials450]

THat was just dumb... you do not let a 4 year old go anywhere alone....

[@aliciakraynik7674]

I know it wasn't far, but I agree a 4 yr old?

[@billbufford]

You are absolutely correct. I know that they've regretted that decision an untold amount of times. However, the fact remains that it was an extremely poor decision in parenting. I say this not to viciously castigate them or their parenting, but to perhaps draw attention to the fact that the world was not an innocent place even back then, much less now. You cannot, CANNOT, keep too close of an eye on your children. Evil existed then, evil existed before then, and it most certainly exists in abundance today. Do not be naive about your children's activities, proclivities, or especially their safety. My heart aches for those parents. Hell, my heart even aches for the parents of that vicious little boy. They, too, made a calamitous parenting decision in not following up on the signs exhibited by that obviously disturbed child. My advice remains the same for all parents: You cannot keep a close enough eye on your children. That is your job, so don't shirk the responsibilities that are yours. You see, I, too, experienced a very similar frightening event with my daughter of the same age 10 years prior to this event. Mine turned out much happier, but it taught me a very important lesson. I may well indeed have been considered by many (including my children) to be extremely over-protective, and I'm very proud of that when I think of the consequences that could have been. Incidentally, I do not think that Eric Smith should have been released. There you go.

[@psford1]

Should’ve charged Eric’s parents as well. He literally cried out to them for help and told them he wanted to “hurt someone”

[@oldmanmob4659]

I agree

[@determined919]

@Krusty Krab They're praising the victim's parents staying together, not the perpetrator's

[@beatriceschnitzler2645]

I totally 100% agree.

[@rockon8174]

No

[@BeeHind]

I'm not even to that part yet but when they're describing what Eric did to Derrick and the sodomizing came up, I knew immediately there had to have been some kind of abuse going on for him to even think of doing that.

[@colleenmahony8803]

I would like to see an interview with the law student "fiancee." That has got to be a super healthy relationship. 🙄 /s

[@Roxy-ch4gv]

How could you have a relationship with a creep like him?

[@cobrakaicyberdon]

Yes I'm intrigued to see her, and her reasoning for getting with a child killer. I wonder if shes one of them types who thinks she can "fix" her partner. Yes I would like to see what she has to say for herself.

[@mamabuck3067]

eric smith might have changed but so has society. if he thinks people were mean back when he was younger, he is in for a huge awakening, lets hope he can contain his anger when he gets bullied in todays society and social media. Prayers to derricks family.

[@cosmicmuffin322]

He hasn't changed. No one has ever proved that a murderous sociopath like him can change enough to be made safe for society. So all this talk about rehabilitation is just self-righteous posturing.

[@Holychickendinner]

Right? I was thinking this too.

[@NickyDiesel]

Hope he has the life he deserves

[@debrabaron1909]

Eric is a sociopath. That does not go away like a headache.

[@kellyf5004]

Yep! Well stated

[@krissyspickles7998]

I'm sorry, but there is no way in any decade that ever existed that I would ever let my 4 year old go off on his own in this fuk3d up world! I'm so sorry that this happened to this beautiful baby boy!

[@janicevictor7414]

The pain is still evident in the parents' eyes after all these years. It never really goes away.

[@savagetwin52]

I remember the killing of this child and the arrest of another. Still sends shivers thru my spine. I am not hopeful this man is changed. He sounds rehearsed and gives the right answers without affect. And that's what scares me. Flat affect. I believe him to be a psychopath.

[@martinamoskale2445]

I have the very same feelings about him. He looked cold at 13 and he still does come across cold. I couldn't detect the slightest emotion accompanying his "words of regret". I hope I'm wrong....

[@t.w.8174]

It is my hope that he somehow ends up back behind bars

[@meowmachine9147]

​@t.w.8174 I agree, though that would mean he would harm someone to get there. Let's hope he HAS changed and doesn't hurt anyone and lives a normal life. But I doubt it.

[@judyeverist646]

He should stay behind bars for the rest of his miserable life Why was he let go Pedophiles Never change There is no Cure He will do it again Our justice system Is not in any way Fair to the victums He will do it again Once a sex monster Always a sex monster The people Who set him free Should be held responsible When he does it qgain

[@t.w.8174]

@@judyeverist646 agreed

[@polkadotsuzanne9306]

Derrick was such a beautiful child. His eyes were full of happiness. Such a sad crime. Heart breaking 💔

[@Domorrigana]

It just hit me after all these years but... I don't think this was a random attack at all... His parents talk about how popular and well-known their little boy was around their tiny town.... I think Eric was familiar with him, I think Eric watched him, and I think Eric was immensely jealous of him. Derrick was cute, beloved, popular, and cared for. Everything Eric was not.

[@sad_vegan507]

I don’t really care how “rehabilitated” this guy is he’s still got that psycho look in his eyes keep him until he’s an old man that doesn’t have the strength to do this to ANYONE ever again

[@monikajohnson8236]

He’s out,was paroled a year ago

[@Anonymous38572]

So you base it off looking in his eyes.... Lol he was a child when it happened, I don't think you really grasp the situation.

[@sherrykrause3410]

His expression never changed once no matter what he was saying.

[@anyatranter5588]

Shame how the psychos who tortured him are out there considered healthy normal people.

[@el34glo59]

That makes no sense. He was a child when he did it. Still looks like psycho isn't enough

[@michellewinn1917]

What a beautiful little boy Derrick was, a true joy, smiling all the time. He would've grown up to be a beautiful person with a lot to offer. I'm so glad the parents stayed together. It was a cruel, cruel crime that took a beautiful spirit from this world ❤️

[@hamishmitchell884]

He was a beautiful soul indeed. I was so happy to see they'd made a ballpark and statue of Derrick at the place he was so cruelly taken.

[@Manwichman]

That is with the Lord... Do not weep for him but for those who are here and have to live in this painful world until their own appointed time... This is the burden of man

[@michellewinn1917]

@Mikey Pee don't ever preach at me. If the Lord's so great why does this happen? I don't like bible bashers so don't ever tell me what to do.

[@LayneStaley-vs4th]

@@Manwichman Agree!

[@LayneStaley-vs4th]

@@michellewinn1917 also agree!

[@knock3x]

I wish I could tell Derrick's mother that no one thinks she should just, "get over it." Surely someone did. I can't imagine what someone has said to her to make her think that! My heart breaks for her.

[@laureng6083]

Yea I felt the same way hearing her say that. What person thinks they will ever get over it? This was their child! I do have friends that lost their child as an adult and one of their close family members ( a sibling to one of the parents ). Wrote something to this effect on their Facebook page when they showed all the Christmas toys they donated each year in their sons name. I couldn’t believe what this person said and I responded as well. So wrong.

[@ktwashere5637]

probably a Christian.

[@gabbymemes4467]

You never get over it when you lose s child 🙏🏻the pain never goes away you just learn to live with it everyday 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@lu.ciel8770]

@@laureng6083 omg! What’s wrong with people? That’s so unkind and unnecessary.

[@chip.chippa6416]

Sounds like a person who made work and career their life. They forget how important family is to us. Who live only for our unit to prosper. I couldn't imagine it being said by anybody else.

[@GardenOfJules]

Commenting because this case really is hitting me tonight. What a sweet little boy, RIP.

[@zariballard]

Now that I've watched the whole show and as I sit here sobbing, I am grateful for two things: that Derek's parents stayed together, and 2) they feel free in a way that he is out and that they no longer have to suffer the parole board every two years. I want to hug them both and everyone in that town who cherished and protected his memory. Do I believe that Eric deserves a second chance at life? No, I do not, but I will pray for him that he never hurts another living being and that he lays low, out of the public eye where no one but his own family has to be faced with what he has done every day when they see him. Blessings to Derek's amazing family and to the town of Sovano that forever keeps his memory alive. Whatever is good for them in the moment is okay with me.😥

[@deborahedelman2659]

Very we said!!

[@rmark1083]

Beautifully said for sure!

[@13zounds]

Oh, how beautiful. You covered everything in my with perfection. I agree with it all. ❤

[@petrarovscek7621]

So true. Amazing people, Derek's and Dalton's parents. That they managed to stay together, to be devoted and conected like this, after all they went through... The amount of love and understanding... Jaw drop amazing. I am in awe.

[@smalltowngirlbigcityheart3724]

@@petrarovscek7621 Yes! Love can conquer all! ❤

[@flightlessdrone5734]

I applaud derrick's parents. one, for staying together through the hardest of times. and two, for finding some sense of happiness after Eric smith's release. this story hit home for me because I lost my older brother in 1993....the same year this crime took place. I can say that when you lose a child (in my case, a sibling) it stays with you. you get through it-----but you never get over it.

[@Sol-Cutta]

Be a little more less applauding when u consider this insane woman of a parent let her 5yr old son go to a park on his own , a park up the road from them ..I live on a park..u come out my back gate and u are on the park and I wouldn't let me daughter out there on her own at 10 as my mother hadn't allowed me at 10, twice the little lads age..it's just llanacy

[@josephrusso7069]

If a parole board is going to release a criminal, the parole board SHOULD be held accountable for what ever crimes that criminal commits after being released. This should make the parole board think twice.

[@sr.liamthegreat6461]

Yeah, I think they should have to have them as roommates for the first 2 years.

[@dinarusso3320]

Exactly 💯, they should be held accountable. If course any psychopath will tell them whatever they want to hear. His eyes are soulless and dead.

[@ChampChamp2024]

@@dinarusso3320 yeah he’ll be a child molester or something watch it’ll come out he’s obviously got issues with small children so it’ll be even worse now

[@helianabanes4875]

That sounds a bit extreme. I understand the sentiment, especially when it comes to this case. But who would serve on a parole board then? No one. And no one that actually deserved parole would ever be released. It is not a perfect system, and I would be lying if I said I understood a lot of the decisions different parole boards make both in granting and denying certain people parole. I am certain there is some corruption, as seems to be the case with all systems with power given to a few people sitting at the top. That being said, making the parole board essentially the guardian and liable for all decisions made for every ex con, is not the answer either. In my opinion, No matter the decisions made, some people will be happy and some will be horrified and angry by decisions that really affect them that they have no vote in.

[@sfullernj]

Yeah obviously you can't do that otherwise no one would ever get of prison or want to ever be on a parole board

[@craigmcgill4612]

In the same year here in the UK beautiful 2 year old James Bulger was murdered by two ugly wee monsters both aged 10… they were given 7 years and a new identity. Absolute no justice for James. It’s disgusting these creatures are allowed to see light of day again, when they reoffend (which they will) the parole board should be held responsible James Patrick Bulger 💙♥️💙♥️👼

[@janetnorris7338]

I remember that case and little James received zero justice unfortunately. R.I.P. Sweet Angel ❤🙏

[@lindaallen5616]

My heart goes out to this mom. Poor child didn't deserve that.

[@TrIpMo1981]

And your heart doesn't go out to the dad?

[@hampantsareharam5489]

@@TrIpMo1981 Nope. We’re done caring about men’s feelings. You’ve all had a long enough run.

[@martyg2333]

How can you not even mention the dad? He clearly adored his son. My heart goes out to both parents. Some of you all are weird. Especially after seeing the video of them fishing together. SMH what an insensitive comment. Be better.

[@noxiousworks]

@@hampantsareharam5489 someone obv didnt grow up with a loving father

[@mariak.910]

@@hampantsareharam5489 how embarrassing to say something like that…

[@beezysbeatz4924]

11:36 .... This is the part that matters more than anything anyone could ever say about or in defense of this unfortunate monster. He is broken beyond repair. It's sad, but it doesn't matter why he's broken now. Even if his parents could have seen the early signs and got him help, he'd still be broken, but the victim would probably be alive. Parents must protect and observe their children with determined vigilance and stay far away from denial, fear or weakness of character.

[@RealElongatedMuskrat]

100% agree. Usually it's pride, arrogance or plain ignorance that keeps parents from acknowledging BLATANT warning signs. It's maddening. We all have a collective responsibility to look out for these things.

[@Farxadiyoguul]

He is a little kid that needed help.

[@AnimalAlmighty]

true

[@LindyLooo99]

A parent NEVER moves on.... geez...how can you let this killer out??

[@Parrrish]

Adult murders are let out for much more less sentences. Murders only do a 3rd of their time….unless if it’s life without parole or the DP. I’ve seen adult murders get out in under 10yrs, happens more than you know!

[@The_Cholo]

They just gave a murderer 5 years.. he will be let out in 3 for gopd behavior. Smh. Its scary

[@Parrrish]

@@The_Cholo it is. People who are True Crime junkies like myself that follow a lot of case, It blows my mind!

[@LynxStarAuto]

@@Parrrish Murders get out but usually it's cases like manslaughter where there was a domestic dispute, or an accident happened. Car accident, etc. A case like this one where the guy basically stalked and preyed on an innocent victim? Those guys rarely get out.

[@joaquimrodriguez8961]

The law is the law.

[@soundoflifersc2297]

The elephant in the room is a society which doesn't want to look at its faults, where adults want to live disorderly relationships without the consequences, like divorce and 'patchwork families' where stepfathers abuse kids. Why do we only see the grandparents of Eric, and his mom maybe for a second or two? Eric displayed the typical troubles of kids with parents who didn't have their act together. Sure, not every such kid becomes a killer, but if there was enough social pressure for people to behave a little more and not take the words 'marriage' and 'family' so lightly, maybe we wouldn't see so many cases like Eric. This report by 48h is purely about symptoms, the causes remain untouched.

[@mementomori7266]

A someone who was bullied relentlessly in school, the adults never seem to care about the incredible pain and impact it has on the child. "Words can't hurt you" is bs. Bullies are allowed to torment and psychologically torture other kids with no consequences, meanwhile, the bullied child goes unnoticed until they break. Some get depressed. Some commit suicide. Some turn to drugs and alcohol. Some turn on others. This kid snapped. It doesnt justify what he did. It was 100% wrong and he is responsible, but people need to really become aware of how much of an impact bullying has on children and the psychological damage and inner anger and rage that can result, especially if the parents never get the child help.

[@KTKaute]

I know what you mean, I was bullied and snapped. I would go around hurting anyone I saw bullying someone else. I never took it too far but inside I felt like I wanted to. But I do have BPD so that's probably why

[@jjohnson3530]

His Dad was his biggest bully... Wouldn't even be surprised if he was the "real killer".... I'm from the area and remember the story well....his Dad or step dad was pure evil to him

[@trailrunner925]

The thing is, a 13 y/o doesn't always possess the ability to emotionally regulate themselves.... they're literally being flooded with new "drugs" in the form of growth hormones. That, and the brain is not fully developed until about age 25. No matter, he should not be permitted to be around children, or work with children. If society makes an error in judgement, it has to be in favor of the innocent. Probably should have been kept in a step down prison, one that permits greater opportunity to exhibit self control and the ability to s elf structure. After 28 years of being told what to do, when to do it, how to do it... it's going to be a struggle when the flood gates of "autonomy" are flung wide open.

[@dapperdonny4051]

Eric Smith killed Derrick Robb because Eric was the complete opposite of Derrick. Eric killed what he was not.

[@jm1361]

@@jjohnson3530 His sister said she was molested. That's a hard thing to admit. Why didn't they look at that? This poor boy. Both boys.

[@sly_tendencies87]

I remember this guy when I was a kid. He doesn't deserve the benefit of the doubt. He didn't give it to the kid he killed. He also tried to do it to another kid

[@laurenmay2098]

He deserves the benefit of doubt, oh yes he does.

[@TiffanyStarr2141]

Didn't he try to lure another kid in the woods that day? Is that what you mean? I don't remember

[@judystanko3470]

Please Elaborate l never new about a second child was in Eric Smith's mist.

[@MisssKayy]

@@judystanko3470 the video is on KZbin.

[@danielbrown1724]

The things he did to that poor kid, unbelievable. Trust me, rehabilitated or not, these types of acts and urges don’t just dissipate. He’s still a sociopath It wouldn’t surprise me if he harms another kid now that he’s out. Keep your doors locked and your children safe from this guy. He’s dangerous!!!

[@_ar.ti.facts_byritadrake]

This is why bullying is a bigger problem than people think. I don’t agree with what he did but he told his parents he wanted to hurt someone. It’s overall a very sad situation. I agree he shouldn’t be released at all - that must have been traumatic for Derricks family to endure that Prayers for both families they both lost a child that day 💜🙏

[@truthlove1114]

You are absolutely right. We can change so much in society by being inclusive and not bullying.

[@_ar.ti.facts_byritadrake]

@@emes7640thank you for sharing- I don’t necessarily agree with you but I respect your comment. There is a lot more violence in schools that shows bullying is an issue. I don’t agree with what he did but I think it contributed to his already troubled mental state. Who knows what environmental factors or genetic markers he was dealt before even being exposed to the outside world. It’s a sad situation all around.

[@GypsyGirl317]

@@_ar.ti.facts_byritadrake I agree. It also seemed like maybe he didn't manage to feel fully loved and accepted at home either. He made one statement that stood out to me and provoked this thought. He was definitely struggling with coping with life and had not been taught strategies to manage the bullying and build his self esteem. 😪 I was born with a congenital deformity that radically altered the appearance of my face, and I was terribly bullied through my life at school, in the 1960s and early 70s. (Born late 1950s). Interestingly, anger wasn't a response for me, sadness and anxiety were. I wonder if that is partly a gender thing, and partly environmental. It's a very interesting and sad plus scary case from the psychological perspective. I had multiple surgeries to help correct as much as possible of my deformity, and although it is still visible, I'm OK with it 99% of the time. 😅 I grew up and became a nurse, with a lot of empathy and compassion for my patients! ❤️

[@RosieyMarie]

Not only that though, the sister had been r* pd by the stepdad so he might've been a victim of that as well. Which kind of reflected in his sexual violent actions towards the other kid. That usually does not stem from bullying. I think that was the biggest factor to doing what he did, since he might've been subjected to the same kind of abuse at home like his sister was. But all of these things drove him insane probably. Not justifying his actions but offering my thoughts as to what could've driven him to become filled with rage and lack empathy.

[@litatorres7762]

@@GypsyGirl317 ❤️❤️❤️

[@FrogTogLogBog]

Absolutely should never see the light of day again

[@t.w.8174]

It wasn’t his red hair or his freckles, it was his psychopathy that kept other children from befriending him.

[@Nice-ck7rq]

Nah it was the red hair and freckles as well being social awkward. Not to mention you have to be at least be 18 to be diagnosed with Antisocial Personality Disorder.

[@ginalove3115]

@@Nice-ck7rqI’m pretty sure kids don’t care about whether he was diagnosable yet. They did most likely pick up on the fact that he was a budding psychopath by his strangeness.

[@hampantsareharam5489]

Yep, kids know when other kids are “off.”

[@t.w.8174]

@@ginalove3115 exactly

[@Cwneema]

@@Nice-ck7rq kids are very innocent and can tell when someone is off. His psychopath character was all over him.

[@Misses-Hippy]

"You relive it everytime he comes up for parole." That is why I am pro-death penalty, when guilt is certain.

[@dianawatton7570]

I agree. If a life is taken then the killer must give a life.✝️

[@Scorned405]

@@dianawatton7570 Yea your logic goes good with that Christian cross. Lol. Smh

[@Scorned405]

@@dianawatton7570 I’m sure u support Trump too. Lol. Praise Jesus wheeewww!!

[@molliemae6855]

Why do you assume she supports Trump just because she believes in the death penalty?

[@amandam1137]

mother should have supervised her 4 year old. she should be charged with child neglect and child endangerment.

[@cinnamongirl5410]

It really pisses me off that you can say a thousand things on behalf of the ''accused'' in court, but the victims just nothing. It's sickening.

[@helianabanes4875]

What do you mean?

[@marinablack181]

How are you going to interrogate a dead body though?

[@daliu8819]

@Marina Black The parents are also victims, they were and still are directly affected by what the killer did

[@Lasagnaisprettycool]

Because a smart cute kid might get more justice than a lazy overweight kid if you have too much emotions affecting the jury. I'm really for right to speech for healing but there is simply a danger of straying from looking at the case objectively sadly. Humans are flawed

[@OneBadAssMoMo]

@@Lasagnaisprettycool what tha? Victim impact and statements for mitigating are allowed AFTER the jury has made its decision. Not Before, Not During, AFTER......

[@annacaldwell8151]

He should have took his last breath in prison 😢