Porterville Man Convicted of Murdering Parents
Today at the South County Justice Center, TCDA prosecutors secured a guilty verdict for Kenneth Charles Smith, age 65, for the 2015 murder of his parents.
On October 4, 2015, Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a residence in Porterville for a welfare check. Upon searching a semi-trailer on the property, deputies discovered the bodies of an 84-year-old male and an 83-year-old female under a tarp and blankets. Blood was found on the back of the male victim’s head and both victims showed signs of strangulation. It was learned that Smith lived in the trailer.
A few hours later, dispatch received a call from the Lake Isabella area from a friend of the defendant who stated that Smith arrived at his home and admitted the killings. Police arrived soon after and took Smith into custody. Through investigation, law enforcement learned that Smith also admitted the murders to multiple family members.
Throughout the eight years of legal proceedings, multiple competency trials were heard, numerous motions were filed, and defense counsel changes were made. At trial, Smith was found guilty of two counts of premeditated first-degree murder with the special allegations that multiple murders were committed. The jury deliberated for one hour and seven minutes. Smith faces life in prison without the possibility of parole at sentencing scheduled for December 14, 2023, in Department 17.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Erica Gonzalez and Supervising Deputy District Attorney Noell Niayesh.
Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, Assistant District Attorney Erica Gonzalez (559) 636-5494