witch-hunt in Oklahoma: The Raye Dawn Smith story

A two-year-old girl was murdered while in the care of her stepfather.

A small Oklahoma town erupted in blind rage, calling for someone to pay for the death.

The media coverage was intense, much of it focusing on sealed documents that were leaked and information provided in defiance of judicial orders. Kelsey's biological father was painted as a war hero with doting parents who would do anything for their grandchild. Kelsey's mother, Raye Dawn Smith, followed the instructions of her legal counsel and remained silent. And her silence was portrayed as guilt.

Internet bullies crawled out of the darkness and threatened anyone who supported Smith, or simply called for time to allow the justice system to work. Nearly two decades later, the same "bash board bullies" continue to claim victims through stalking, threats, and harassment.

Raye Dawn Smith was convicted and sentenced to 27 years in prison because she "should have known" about abuse that occurred when she wasn't present. This is the true story of what happened and how Kelsey Smith-Briggs has been denied justice.