Blog Post # 2
(Snapped) Season 33 Episode 3: Susan Polk
On October 14, 2002, Dr. Frank “Felix” Polk was found dead in this home due to multiple blood force trauma to his head, and numerous stab wounds. In the episode it was reported that Dr. Polk was found dead by his youngest son Gabriel. The couple’s youngest son Gabriel called the police and noted that he believed his mom shot his dad. Gabriel was then interviewed by detectives to gather the facts regarding his father’s death. Gabriel informed the detectives about his mother’s current mental health state and believes she is suffering from some untreated issues. Lastly, Susan was then interviewed to inquire about her connections to the death of her husband. Initially, Susan denied being involved in her husband’s murder. However, once the autopsy report was completed, the medical examiner found Susan’s hair on her deceased husband. Based on the evidence, Susan was connected to Frank’s murder.
The Snapped series then proceeded to explain the background story of Susan’s life. The background story was detailing Susan’s white and social privilege. Susan is a white woman who was known because of her intelligence, married over 20 years to a clinical psychologist. Susan and Frank lived in a wealthy neighborhood in California. This is an important factor, although Susan murdered her husband, the courts, cops, and corrections treated her like the victim. Also, all the characters in this documentary were white. Susan and Frank’s sons were also allowed to testify during the trial. Their testimonies spoke about the seriousness of Susan’s anger with their father.
Susan’s privilege also led her to have a media following and interviews. Susan fired all her attorneys and began to represent herself during the trial. The courts and well-trained lawyers were appalled about how intelligent Susan is. This also speaks to Susan’s white female privilege as well. During the trial Susan’s defense was very stereotypical. Susan reported that Dr. Polk sexually assaulted her when she was his patient years prior. Susan’s defense continued to explain she was psychologically and emotionally abused by the deceased, which caused her to snap. However, there was no evidence. Susan played the victim well. Also, Susan continued to have a media circus surrounding her trial by conducting interviews.
In 2006, Susan was convicted of second-degree murder, unpremeditated murder for the death of her husband Frank Polk.
I believe this series was extremely realistic. Susan being a white woman and playing the victim contributed to how the system treated and convicted her. First, Susan was able to represent herself and impress the public. Second, she created a media circus for attention, impacting the well-being of her children. Third, the system works for white women like her. I believe if Susan was not a white woman, she would have been charged with first degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Currently, Susan is serving her time in a dorm style prison. Overall, this story reflects how the legal system does work in favor of white people.
By: Bryan Haggard
Susan Polk
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