Elizabeth Smart, at the young age of 14, was abducted by a street preacher armed with a knife while she slept in her Salt Lake City home. For nine months, she endured captivity and was subjected to repeated sexual assaults by her captor, Brian David Mitchell. Mitchell, aided by his wife Wanda Barzee, subjected Elizabeth to degrading treatment, such as making her walk like a dog with a cable around her neck and confining her to a dark hole in the ground to avoid detection.
The ordeal came to an end when a viewer of America’s Most Wanted recognized Mitchell and Barzee preaching on the streets and alerted the authorities. Elizabeth, who had disguised herself with a dark wig and veil, was rescued and reunited with her family. Despite initial struggles to speak about her traumatic experience, Elizabeth went on to establish the Elizabeth Smart Foundation to support survivors of sexual abuse.
Mitchell faced trial for kidnapping and transporting a minor across state lines, where he attempted to plead insanity. He was ultimately found guilty and sentenced to life in prison. Barzee, on the other hand, admitted to the kidnapping and received a 15-year sentence. The road to justice, as described by FBI Special Agent James McTighe, was long and emotional but served as a testament that justice would prevail.
Elizabeth’s story has been adapted into a Netflix documentary titled “Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart,” featuring exclusive archival footage and interviews with her family. Through sharing her story, Elizabeth aims to empower other victims and survivors to break the silence and seek support without shame or guilt.