President Armstrong Offers Comment on Guilty Verdict in Trial Over Kristin Smart’s Disappearance
Contact: Matt Lazier
805-756-7109; [email protected]
SAN LUIS OBISPO — Cal Poly President Jeffrey D. Armstrong offered comment Tuesday on the guilty verdict against Paul Flores in his trial over the disappearance of Kristin Smart in 1996.
“Kristin Smart’s disappearance is a tragic part of our Cal Poly community’s history, and our university has closely watched the case, hoping throughout for justice for Kristin and resolution for her family,” Armstrong said. “Today’s guilty verdict is a welcome development in the pursuit of justice, and our university community hopes this brings some comfort and a measure of resolution to Kristin’s loved ones.
“Our thoughts continue to be with Denise and Stan Smart and family.
“On behalf of the entire university community, I offer our thanks to Sheriff Ian Parkinson, all law enforcement investigators, District Attorney Dan Dow, and the prosecutors who have pursued the case. We also wish to join many across California and the U.S. in thanking Chris Lambert for his efforts.”
The university is providing support services for campus community members who may be feeling a range of emotions in response to the verdicts announced today.
Students can find support through Campus Health & Wellbeing, including both Safer and Counseling Services:
- Counseling Services will hold a Drop-In Support space Oct. 19, from 1-2pm via Zoom.
- Safer has same-day availability to meet with a Confidential Advocate or invite an Advocate to an existing meeting.
- A student-led vigil is being planned for Friday.
- In addition, Safer is offering additional information and chances to get involved for Dating Violence Action month in October.
Students can also take advantage of a variety of other resources and caring staff from Safer, Counseling Services, and the Office of the Dean of Students, and other programs.
Employees can find information on the university’s Employee Assistance Program.