Netflix’s upcoming documentary titled “Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart” is set to premiere on January 21. This film revisits one of the most notable kidnapping cases in America. At the center of this story is Elizabeth Smart, who was abducted from her Salt Lake City home in 2002 at the age of 14.
Elizabeth Smart’s Abduction and Rescue
On June 5, 2002, Elizabeth was taken from her bedroom by Brian David Mitchell. Mitchell threatened her with a knife while her younger sister, Mary Katherine, pretended to be asleep. After being held captive for nine months, Elizabeth was rescued on March 12, 2003, just five miles from her home.
The Role of Mary Katherine Smart
Mary Katherine’s memory played a crucial role in Elizabeth’s rescue. It was her recollection of a voice that eventually led to the identification of Mitchell. She stated, “I knew immediately that’s who was in my bedroom.”
Life After Kidnapping
Now 38 years old, Elizabeth Smart has transformed her trauma into advocacy. Since her rescue, she has been a tireless advocate for child safety and sexual abuse survivors. She founded the Elizabeth Smart Foundation in 2011, focusing on victim support and empowerment initiatives.
Advocacy and Initiatives
- Smart Defense: A self-defense program to educate survivors.
- Smart Talks: Educational programs aimed at helping survivors of abduction and sexual assault.
Smart has also played a pivotal role in legislative efforts, endorsing initiatives like the AMBER Alert and the Adam Walsh Act. Her personal testimony has been instrumental in these initiatives.
Personal Life and Publications
In 2012, Elizabeth married Matthew Gilmour, a Scottish native. They met during missionary work in France and currently have three children: Chloe, James, and Olivia. Smart is also an accomplished author, having penned two books, “My Story” and “Where There’s Hope.”
Family Impact and Reflections
While Elizabeth is open about her experiences, some family members prefer to keep the past behind them. Elizabeth understands these sentiments, saying, “Some members of my family want to leave things in the past.”
Mary Katherine Smart has since pursued a career in education, recently earning her master’s degree. Ed and Lois Smart, Elizabeth’s parents, have also been vocal advocates for child safety, upholding their daughter’s legacy.
Legal Outcomes for Captors
Elizabeth’s testimony was crucial during Mitchell’s trial. In December 2010, he was found guilty of kidnapping and given a life sentence, which he is currently serving. Wanda Barzee, his accomplice, received a 15-year sentence but was released in 2018, which dismayed Elizabeth.
Ongoing Challenges
Barzee’s release raised concerns about the safety of communities. Elizabeth expressed her disappointment, highlighting the complications surrounding mental health evaluations linked to her case.
As the premiere of the documentary approaches, Elizabeth Smart’s story serves as a reminder of resilience and the ongoing struggle to advocate for survivors and child protection initiatives.
