Elizabeth Smart, at the age of 14, was abducted by a street preacher armed with a knife while she slept in her Salt Lake City home in June 2002. Brian David Mitchell, the preacher, along with his wife Wanda Barzee, subjected Elizabeth to months of sexual abuse at a remote campsite. Mitchell used tactics like providing alcohol and drugs to prevent her resistance and instilled fear to deter any rescue attempts.
After being reported missing, Elizabeth’s case gained widespread attention, leading to a significant search effort. It was not until March 2003, when an attentive viewer of America’s Most Wanted recognized Mitchell and Barzee, that Elizabeth was rescued. Despite initial difficulties in discussing her traumatic experience, Elizabeth eventually established the Elizabeth Smart Foundation to support survivors of sexual abuse.
Mitchell faced trial in 2010 for kidnapping and transporting a minor across state lines. Despite attempting an insanity defense, he was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison. Barzee, on the other hand, accepted her role in the kidnapping and received a 15-year prison term.
Reflecting on her journey, Elizabeth emphasized the importance of survivors speaking out against sexual violence and not feeling ashamed. She has turned her harrowing experience into a platform for advocacy, with her story now featured in a Netflix documentary titled Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart. The documentary includes never-before-seen footage and interviews with Elizabeth’s family members, aiming to provide support and empowerment to other survivors.