The Horrific True Story Of Woman Held Captive For 18 Years: The Disappearance of Elizabeth Smart

On the night of June 4, 2002, Elizabeth Smart was sleeping in her bed when she was abducted from her home in Salt Lake City, Utah. The 14-year-old girl was taken by Brian David Mitchell and Wanda Barzee, a couple who had been living in the mountains near the city. For the next nine months, Elizabeth was held captive and subjected to horrific abuse.

Elizabeth's captors forced her to hike barefoot through the mountains, often for miles at a time. They also starved her and beat her. Elizabeth was also sexually abused by Mitchell, who claimed to be a prophet and told her that he was taking her as his wife.

The Devil At Home: The horrific true story of a woman held captive

by Rachel Williams

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6519 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	202 pages
Paperback	:	156 pages
Item Weight	:	13 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.27 x 0.36 x 11.02 inches

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In March 2003, Elizabeth was finally rescued when a couple spotted her and her captors at a Walmart store in Sandy, Utah. Elizabeth was taken to the hospital and treated for her injuries. Mitchell and Barzee were arrested and charged with kidnapping and other crimes.

In 2009, Mitchell was convicted of kidnapping and sexual assault and sentenced to life in prison. Barzee pleaded guilty to kidnapping and was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Elizabeth has since spoken out about her experience and has become an advocate for victims of kidnapping and sexual abuse.

The impact of Elizabeth Smart's kidnapping

Elizabeth Smart's kidnapping had a profound impact on her family and friends, as well as on the entire Utah community. The case also raised awareness of the issue of kidnapping and sexual abuse.

Elizabeth's parents, Ed and Lois Smart, have said that they are grateful for the support they received from the community during their daughter's ordeal. They have also said that they are proud of Elizabeth for her strength and courage.

Elizabeth's friends have said that they were devastated when she was kidnapped. They said that they missed her dearly and were worried about her safety.

The Utah community was shocked and outraged by Elizabeth's kidnapping. Many people volunteered to help search for her, and there were numerous vigils and prayer services held in her honor.

Elizabeth's kidnapping also raised awareness of the issue of kidnapping and sexual abuse. Many people were not aware of how common these crimes are, and Elizabeth's case helped to shed light on the issue.

Elizabeth Smart's legacy

Elizabeth Smart is a survivor of kidnapping and sexual abuse. She has shown incredible strength and courage in the face of adversity, and she has become an inspiration to others.

Elizabeth has spoken out about her experience and has become an advocate for victims of kidnapping and sexual abuse. She has testified before Congress and has worked with law enforcement agencies to improve their response to these crimes.

Elizabeth's legacy is one of hope and healing. She has shown that it is possible to overcome even the most horrific experiences and to live a full and happy life.

Additional resources

• Elizabeth Smart Foundation
• RAINN
• National Safe Place

The Devil At Home: The horrific true story of a woman held captive

by Rachel Williams

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6519 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	202 pages
Paperback	:	156 pages
Item Weight	:	13 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.27 x 0.36 x 11.02 inches

FREE