Revealing Bombshells in Elizabeth Smart’s Netflix Documentary ‘Kidnapped’
Elizabeth Smart’s harrowing experience is documented in the new Netflix film, “Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart.” This documentary reveals shocking new details about her abduction and the investigation that followed.
The Abduction
On June 5, 2002, Elizabeth Smart was taken from her bedroom in Salt Lake City by a man wielding a knife. She was only 14 years old at the time.
The Captors
Her abductors were Brian David Mitchell, who claimed to be a prophet, and his wife Wanda Barzee. For nine months, Elizabeth suffered extreme abuse, including physical torment and psychological manipulation.
Family in the Spotlight
In a devastating turn, Elizabeth’s own family became initial suspects in her disappearance. The investigation’s lead, Cory Lyman, stated that many times the perpetrator is a family member.
- Ed Smart, Elizabeth’s father, was interrogated and felt overwhelmed by suspicion.
- Mary Katherine, Elizabeth’s younger sister, witnessed the kidnapping but struggled to identify the abductor.
- Speculations also fell on Tom Smart, Elizabeth’s uncle, who made controversial remarks about the case.
The Investigation
The investigation faced numerous obstacles. Initial leads faltered and suspects were eliminated as investigators failed to connect key dots.
In September 2002, while being held captive, Elizabeth and her captors moved to San Diego, California. Elizabeth cleverly convinced them to return to Utah, fearing she would never be found if they went to another city.
Breakthrough Moments
A significant breakthrough in Elizabeth’s case came four months after her kidnapping, when her sister remembered the voice of the captor while looking through a book. The name “Emmanuel,” a false identity used by Mitchell, came to her.
However, law enforcement was initially skeptical and hesitated to act on this new lead.
Rescue and Aftermath
The nightmare ended on March 12, 2003, when authorities located Elizabeth in Sandy, Utah. Witnesses helped police arrest Mitchell and Barzee.
- Mitchell received two life sentences in federal prison.
- Barzee was sentenced to 15 years.
After her rescue, Elizabeth completed her education and married Matthew Gilmour in 2012. She is now a mother of three and continues to live in Utah.
Reflections on Strength
In the documentary, Elizabeth shares her resilience, asserting, “I’m stronger than I thought I was.” Her story raises awareness about abduction and the importance of support systems for victims.
Viewer Reactions
Responses to the Netflix documentary have been overwhelmingly positive. Viewers express admiration for Elizabeth’s strength and the investigative details provided.
“Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart” serves as both a chilling reminder of the past and a message of hope for survivors everywhere.
