California Investigators Conduct Search in Christine Smart Case
Law enforcement officials in California carried out a search warrant at a residence associated with a man convicted of murdering Christine Smart, as announced by authorities.
The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office shared details on Facebook, revealing that the search occurred on Wednesday at a property located on East Branch Street in Arroyo Grande. This location is linked to Smart’s disappearance and her convicted murderer, Paul Flores. Public records indicate that his mother, Susan Flores, resides there. A podcast called “Your Own Backyard” was the first to report on the search.
“The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office is following up on the investigation related to Christine Smart’s disappearance. This activity follows a search warrant issued by a Superior Court Judge,” the office stated. “We remain committed to bringing Christine back to her family.”
Paul Flores, 49, received a sentence of 25 years to life in prison after being found guilty of Smart’s murder in October 2022, following a lengthy trial.
Smart, a 19-year-old student at California Polytechnic State University, was killed during what prosecutors described as an attempted rape in Flores’ dorm room. Her body has never been located—she went missing in May 1996, and searches for her remains continue.
San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow emphasized that efforts are ongoing to locate Smart’s body.
“Those who are accountable for Christine’s death, as well as anyone who knows her current whereabouts, must have answers,” Dow remarked. “We will utilize every lawful means available to recover Christine’s body and provide support to her family until she is found.”
A judge ruled in 2024 that Paul Flores needed to pay over $350,000 to Smart’s family in expenses related to her death.
The Smart family indicated they would stop seeking compensation if Flores disclosed where they could find their daughter’s body. However, Flores’ legal team contends that he does not know that information.
Susan Flores has not responded to requests for comment.
