Elizabeth Smart Reveals 12 Shocking Truths in ‘Kidnapped’ Documentary
Elizabeth Smart’s harrowing abduction story is the focus of the new Netflix documentary, Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart. At 38, Smart reflects on her traumatic experiences, which began when she was just 14 years old. In June 2002, she was kidnapped from her home in Salt Lake City by Brian David Mitchell, a man previously known to her family.
Background of the Abduction
Smart was abducted from her bedroom, an event that shocked her family and the community. Her rescue took nine months, a timeline significantly shaped by her family’s persistent advocacy. The key to her eventual rescue lay with her younger sister, Mary Katherine Smart, who recognized Mitchell’s voice on the night Elizabeth was taken.
Shocking Truths Revealed
In the documentary, Smart unveils twelve shocking truths about her ordeal. Here are some of the most significant revelations:
- Threats of Violence: Smart recalls Mitchell threatening her with a knife during the initial abduction.
- Abduction Dynamics: She remembered asking her captor if he planned to murder her, to which he ominously replied that he wouldn’t do so “yet.”
- Wanda Barzee’s Role: A woman named Wanda Barzee helped in the abduction, claiming to protect Smart but in reality, undressing her in the woods.
- Marriage Declaration: Mitchell declared Smart his wife in a twisted marriage ceremony, further traumatizing her.
- Repeated Assaults: Smart disclosed being raped multiple times daily, a horrific reality during her captivity.
- Physical Restraints: She was chained by her ankles to prevent escape, revealing the constant threat she felt.
- Intimidation of Family: Mitchell made claims about kidnapping additional girls, enhancing Smart’s fear for her family.
- Perceived Threats: While lost in the woods, Smart faintly heard her name called during the extensive search efforts.
- Use of Alcohol: She was forced to drink alcohol until she became ill, representing the control Mitchell exerted over her.
- Missed Escape Opportunities: During an encounter with a detective, Smart chose silence out of fear for her safety.
- Return to Salt Lake City: Smart managed to convince Mitchell to return to Salt Lake City by manipulating his religious sentiments.
- Rescue Moment: Smart’s rescue came after she discreetly confirmed her identity to police with the words, “Thou sayeth.”
Impact and Legacy
Smart’s story is not just about survival but a profound commentary on the resilience of the human spirit. Her account, though filled with pain, serves as a beacon of hope for others who have experienced trauma. The documentary offers an unsettling look at her experiences and underlines the importance of continuing to advocate for victims of abduction.
Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart is currently streaming on Netflix, providing a deep and honest exploration of her life during those nine agonizing months.
