A Texas man has been sentenced to 48 years in prison after pleading guilty to shooting a transgender woman in 2023. At the time of the attack, he was already out on bond for an earlier murder charge. The case has drawn strong concern from advocates who view it as another tragic example of anti-trans violence compounded by systemic failures.
John Lee Smith III, 25, pleaded guilty Thursday in Gregg County to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for shooting a transgender woman on the morning of August 23, 2023. The victim, whose name has not been released, was transported for emergency treatment at the University of Texas Tyler Main Hospital with a life-threatening gunshot wound.
Initially, Smith denied knowing the victim or being involved in the shooting. Later, he changed his story, admitting that he knew the woman and had shot her after, he claimed, discovering she was transgender. However, police investigators presented evidence showing that Smith had previously been involved with the victim and was fully aware of her gender identity prior to the assault.
At the time of the incident, Smith was out on a $125,000 bond for a separate murder charge stemming from the July 2022 shooting of Phillip Hudson in Longview. Hudson was the father of two children with Smith’s then-girlfriend and was reportedly shot in front of them. Smith was taken into custody but released on bond in April 2023.
As part of the plea agreement, prosecutors dropped the earlier murder charge along with additional weapons violations. Smith entered the plea without a sentencing deal, aware that he could receive anywhere from two years to life in prison. His prior conviction allowed for sentencing enhancements.
During the sentencing phase, Smith’s legal team attempted to portray him as someone who was the target of unwanted sexual advances. Prosecutors rejected this defense and described him as a man who remained armed while on bond and showed no compassion or restraint in his actions.
The official press release from the Gregg County Criminal District Attorney’s Office misgendered the victim, drawing criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates. Misgendering a victim, particularly in cases of violence, not only disrespects their identity but also adds to the trauma experienced by transgender communities who already face higher rates of violence and erasure.
In addition to the shooting, jail officials reported that Smith used the facility’s communication system to contact a 15-year-old girl. He allegedly persuaded her to send him explicit images and encouraged her to join a platform where men pay for sexual services. Authorities say Smith planned for the girl to earn money and deliver it to him while he remained incarcerated.
Advocates have expressed concern that although a 48-year sentence reflects the severity of the crime, full justice for the victim also includes respectful acknowledgment of their identity. Violence disproportionately targets transgender individuals, and this case underscores the urgent need for stronger systemic protections and cultural accountability.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860. The service is staffed by and for the transgender community.
