Elizabeth Smart, at the age of 14, was abducted by a street preacher armed with a knife as she slept in her Salt Lake City home back in June 2002. The preacher, Brian David Mitchell, then 48, along with his wife Wanda Barzee, subjected Elizabeth to nine months of captivity during which she endured repeated instances of sexual assault.
Mitchell and Barzee took Elizabeth to a secluded camp where they subjected her to degrading treatment, including making her walk like a dog with a cable around her neck and confining her in a dark hole to keep her hidden. Mitchell allegedly used alcohol and drugs to subdue Elizabeth, while threatening anyone who attempted to rescue her.
The case gained significant attention, leading to an extensive search for the missing teenager. It wasn’t until March 2003 when Mitchell was recognized by a viewer of America’s Most Wanted and subsequently reported to authorities. Elizabeth was found with the couple, dressed in disguise, and struggled to recount her traumatic experience upon reuniting with her family.
Following her ordeal, Elizabeth established the Elizabeth Smart Foundation to support survivors of sexual abuse, receiving an overwhelming response from individuals sharing their own stories. She emphasized the importance of raising awareness about sexual violence and empowering survivors to shed any feelings of shame or guilt.
Mitchell faced trial in 2010 for kidnapping and transporting a minor across state lines, where he unsuccessfully attempted an insanity plea. He was sentenced to life in prison, while Barzee received a 15-year sentence after admitting to her involvement in the abduction.
Reflecting on her journey to justice, Elizabeth expressed a desire to reclaim her narrative and inspire other survivors through her foundation. Her story has been immortalized in a Netflix documentary titled “Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart,” featuring exclusive footage and interviews with her family members, with the hope of offering solace and support to victims of similar experiences.
