A new episode of A&E’s Killer Investigations revisits the murder of Florida health care executive and LGBTQ advocate Timothy Smith, whose husband was later convicted of killing him and staging the scene to mislead investigators.
Murder Featured in New True Crime Episode
The episode, titled “Murder in the Sex Studio,” examines the investigation into Smith’s death and the evidence that led detectives to his husband, Herbert Swilley.
According to investigators, Swilley drugged Smith with a lethal dose of allergy medication before strangling him. Detectives said the crime scene was then staged to make it appear that Smith had died during a consensual sexual encounter with an unknown person.
Investigators Uncover the Truth
Authorities said Smith was found dead inside a private apartment used for sexual encounters. Detectives determined that the scene had been manipulated in an effort to divert suspicion.
Investigators used forensic evidence, witness interviews and crime scene analysis to build the case against Swilley.
Friends Remember Timothy Smith
Friends interviewed in the episode described Smith as a caring and respected member of the community.
They highlighted his work as a health care executive and LGBTQ advocate, remembering him as someone who was always willing to help others and brought energy and positivity wherever he went.
Conviction and Sentence
Following the investigation, Swilley was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison.
The episode follows the full investigation, featuring interviews with detectives, body camera footage and details from the court proceedings that ultimately led to his conviction.
