Dive into the chilling true crime story of Edgar Herbert Smith, the manipulative killer who charmed his way off death row only to strike again. From the brutal 1957 murder of 15-year-old cheerleader Victoria Zielinski in New Jersey to Smith's bestselling books, celebrity endorsements, and shocking 1976 attack on another victim, this episode uncovers a tale of deception, false redemption, and justice delayed. Explore how a sociopath exploited hope for second chances, fooling intellectuals like William F. Buckley and evading consequences for decades. Perfect for fans of serial killers, wrongful convictions, and dark psychology. Listen now to Almost Fiction Podcast's deep dive into this infamous case of lies, betrayal, and the dangers of misplaced trust. #TrueCrime #MurderMystery #Podcast

Sources:

The Great Prevaricator. By Lona Manning For Crime Magazine. October 9, 2009.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edgar_Smith_(murderer)

Edgar Smith, 1957 killer of Ramsey High School cheerleader, dies at 83. By Keldy Ortiz For NorthJersey.com. September 24, 2017.

How Killer Edgar Smith Duped Many, Including William F. Buckley Jr., Into Believing He Was Innocent. By Elena Ferrarin For AETV.com. September 07, 2022.

https://murderpedia.org/male.S/s/smith-edgar.htm

Archive: Imprisoned killer's former wife is haunted by fear he'll get out. By Mike Kelly For NorthJersey.com. September 24, 2017.

Smart Men; Stupid Choices: William F. Buckley, Jr. By Laura Wilkerson For Salon.com. September 23, 2011.

Edgar Smith, death row inmate whose release was championed by William F. Buckley Jr., dies at 83. By The Associated Press. Saturday, September 23, 2017.e