Ex-Fiancé Arrested for Murder 15 Years After 'People's Court' Mom Vanished
Dale Smith charged in the disappearance of Michelle Parker, whose case gained notoriety after an appearance on the TV show.
The ex-fiancé of Michelle Parker, a Florida mother who disappeared nearly 15 years ago, has been arrested and charged with her murder. Dale Smith was taken into custody on Wednesday at his workplace, Orlando Police announced. Smith, the father of Parker’s twins, had been considered a prime suspect since Parker vanished in November 2011.
The disappearance occurred on the same day an episode of “The People’s Court” aired, featuring the couple arguing over an engagement ring. Parker was last seen after dropping off her then-3-year-old twins at Smith’s home. Her remains have never been found.
Orlando Police stated that new digital forensics technology was instrumental in bringing the second-degree murder charges against Smith. "While Michelle has not yet been located, all evidence leads to Dale Smith Jr as the person responsible for Michelle’s murder," the department said in a statement. "We will continue pursuing justice for Michelle, her family, and every victim we serve."
Mugshot images of Smith were released by the Orlando Police Department following his arrest.