US inmate spared execution eight times dies at 101

Francis Clifford Smith, a man who spent more than seven decades behind bars and narrowly escaped execution eight times, died at the age of 101. Smith, believed to be the longest-serving prisoner in the United States, passed away in June at a Connecticut care facility.

Convicted at 25 for first-degree murder in 1950, Smith always maintained his innocence. His case was marked by significant doubts regarding the evidence used for his conviction. Key witnesses recanted their statements, and another inmate confessed to the crime. Even a police officer involved in his interrogation reportedly believed Smith was innocent, stating he wasn't sure Smith was even present at the murder.

These lingering questions about his guilt were instrumental in sparing Smith from execution on multiple occasions. Though initially sentenced to death in 1950, his sentence was commuted to life imprisonment in 1954. He became a notable figure at Osborn Correctional Institution, earning the nickname "The Birdman of Osborn" for his habit of feeding birds within the prison grounds.

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I’m not even sure he was present at the murder.

Smith's life in custody spanned over 70 years, punctuated by brief periods of freedom, including an escape and recapture and a temporary release. He was granted parole in 1975 but violated it within months. He later rejected parole offers until 2020, when he was placed on supervised parole and moved to a specialized care facility.

His case also highlights the growing issue of an aging prison population, a challenge faced by correctional systems globally. Researchers note that many elderly inmates grapple with age-related health issues, mirroring Smith's situation in his final years.

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He would stuff as much bread as he could … in his clothing.