California Supreme Court denies Paul Flores’ petition for review

By Atascadero News · Mon Jan 19 2026

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — The California Supreme Court has denied Paul Flores’ petition for review of his conviction for the 1996 murder of Kristin Smart, according to an announcement from District Attorney Dan Dow.

Kristin Smart, a 19-year-old Cal Poly freshman, was reported missing in May 1996. After a 25-year investigation, Flores was arrested in 2021 and convicted of first-degree murder in October 2022. He was sentenced in March 2023 to 25 years to life in state prison.

Flores previously appealed his conviction to the Second District Court of Appeal. In October 2025, the appellate court issued a written opinion affirming the conviction. The jury trial was held in Monterey County Superior Court following a defense motion for a change of venue from San Luis Obispo County.

“While we are very pleased that this decision brings a stronger sense of finality for all involved, we will always remember Kristin Smart and will continue to do all we can to honor the memory of her vibrant life,” said District Attorney Dan Dow. “Our hearts go out to Mr. and Mrs. Smart and their entire family for all that they have endured for the last 30 years.”  

Feature Image: Daniel Dreifuss / MC Weekly