Elizabeth Smart was abducted at the age of 14 from her bedroom while her younger sister watched in fear. Now 38, she shares her harrowing experience in a new true crime documentary on Netflix titled “Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart.” The documentary reveals previously unseen footage of her ordeal.
In the documentary, Elizabeth recounts how her sister, despite initial disbelief from detectives, recognized the abductor as a man named Brian David Mitchell, also known as Emmanuel. Mitchell, a known acquaintance of the family, had posed as a homeless man and had done odd jobs at their home. It took months for Mary Katherine to realize the abductor’s true identity, leading authorities to investigate Mitchell.
Following Mary Katherine’s revelation, Mitchell was eventually identified and arrested. He had held Elizabeth captive in a remote camp, where he repeatedly raped her. Mitchell’s wife, Wanda Barzee, also participated in the abuse. Despite being in public together, Mitchell made Elizabeth and Wanda conceal their faces, claiming it was for religious reasons.
Mitchell, who believed he was a prophet, eventually took Elizabeth to California but she managed to convince him to return to Salt Lake City. Nine months after her abduction, officers rescued Elizabeth as they recognized Mitchell while walking in her hometown. Mitchell received a life sentence, while Barzee served half of her 15-year sentence and was released.
Today, Elizabeth is a mother of three and an advocate for missing persons. She hopes that sharing her story will bring awareness and support to others who have endured similar traumas. “Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart” is currently available for streaming on Netflix.