210: Family Nightmare: Did the Step Dad Know? | The Twisted Case of 14-year-old Carly Gregg
Serialously with Annie Elise
Key Insights
Why did Carly Gregg kill her mother?
Carly Gregg killed her mother, Ashley Smiley, after Ashley discovered Carly's drug use, specifically marijuana vape pens. Carly's actions were reportedly driven by a severe reaction to her mother's anger and disappointment, leading to a violent outburst.
What evidence suggests Carly Gregg may have been mentally unstable?
Evidence includes Carly's self-harm behavior, her diagnosis of major depressive disorder and adjustment disorder, her blackout during the murder, and her claims of hearing voices before the crime. Her therapist also noted her emotional stability during their sessions, and a doctor diagnosed her with bipolar disorder.
Did Carly Gregg have a history of violence?
No, Carly Gregg had no history of violence. She was a good student with no prior arrests and was described as a smart and talented child by her father.
Why did Carly Gregg reject the plea deal?
Carly Gregg rejected the plea deal of 40 years in prison because she pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, arguing that her severe mental health issues prevented her from fully understanding her actions during the murder.
What role did Carly Gregg's stepfather, Heath Smiley, play in the case?
Heath Smiley was the stepfather who was also shot by Carly. There are speculations that he may have been involved in the murders, possibly having an inappropriate relationship with Carly or being complicit in the planning. However, these allegations have not been substantiated, and he was cleared of tampering with evidence.
How did the community react to the murder of Ashley Smiley?
The community was shocked and devastated, especially because Ashley Smiley was a beloved teacher at a local school. The news of the crime spread quickly in the small town of Brandon, Mississippi, leading to widespread gossip and speculation.
What was Carly Gregg's relationship with her biological father, Kevin Gregg, like?
Carly Gregg's relationship with her biological father, Kevin Gregg, was strained due to his drug abuse and alleged physical abuse. He was not a consistent presence in her life, and she did not like visiting him, often citing his drug use and lack of interaction.
What were some of the red flags in Carly Gregg's behavior leading up to the murder?
Red flags included Carly's regular drug use (marijuana, mushrooms, cocaine), self-harm, bringing a knife to school, cheating on a math test, having a tattoo and nipple piercing, sneaking out at night, and using a burner phone to text a secret boyfriend.
How did Carly Gregg's mental health treatment impact her behavior?
Carly Gregg was diagnosed with major depressive disorder and adjustment disorder and started taking Zoloft, which made her feel like a zombie. She switched to Lexapro, which she was taking right before the murder. Her therapist noted her emotional stability during their sessions, but a doctor later diagnosed her with bipolar disorder, suggesting her medication might not have been appropriate.
What was the outcome of Carly Gregg's trial?
Carly Gregg was found guilty of murder, attempted murder, and tampering with evidence. She was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The defense filed a motion for a new trial, claiming new evidence, but it was denied.
Chapters
- Carly Gregg shot her mother and stepfather in March 2024.
- Her parents' divorce and the death of her sister Natalie impacted her mental health.
- Carly exhibited signs of anxiety and depression from a young age.
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