Crime House True Crime Stories: February 3 - KIDNAPPING

Host: Vanessa Richardson
Release Date: February 3, 2025
Podcast: Crime House True Crime Stories
Description: This episode delves into two infamous kidnapping cases—Patty Hearst in 1974 and Elizabeth Smart in 2003—highlighting their impacts on society and the enduring questions surrounding their abductions and subsequent actions.

Introduction

In this episode of Crime House True Crime Stories, host Vanessa Richardson explores two landmark kidnapping cases tied by the common theme of abductions that shocked the nation. The episode juxtaposes the 1974 abduction of Patty Hearst by the Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA) with the 2003 kidnapping of 14-year-old Elizabeth Smart, examining the circumstances, investigations, and lasting effects of these high-profile crimes.

Patty Hearst Kidnapping Case (1974)

Background

Patty Hearst, a 19-year-old heiress from the prominent Hearst family, led a life of privilege and high societal expectations. Despite her family's legacy and wealth, Patty was known for her rebellious nature, resisting the conventional path laid out for her.

Abduction

On the night of February 4, 1974, Patty was abducted from her Berkeley, California apartment by three SLA members. The attack was sudden and violent, leaving her fiancé Stephen Weed severely beaten and Patty forcibly taken to an SLA safe house. The SLA, a militant group opposed to capitalism, aimed to use Patty as leverage for their political agenda.

Vanessa Richardson [04:12]: "Patty had been raised in a mansion outside of San Francisco with her parents and four sisters, but she wasn’t interested in following the blueprint her family set for her."

SLA’s Demands and Hearst Family's Response

Initially, the SLA sought to negotiate a prisoner swap, but they later demanded that the Hearst family fund a food program for Americans living in poverty instead. The Hearsts swiftly launched the "People in Need" program, distributing over 150,000 bags of food within a month, though the effort was marred by chaos and riots.

Vanessa Richardson [04:12]: "After reading the engagement announcement, Bill went to the Berkeley campus and was able to find Patty's address."

Patty’s Alleged Shift and Involvement with the SLA

In April 1974, Patty purportedly proclaimed her allegiance to the SLA, participating in bank robberies and other criminal activities. This dramatic shift baffled authorities and her family, leading to increased efforts to capture her alongside other SLA members.

Vanessa Richardson [14:39]: "Patty sent out another recording after the robbery. She said she was, 'a soldier in the People's Army.'"

Capture and Trial

Patty was eventually apprehended in September 1975 after being identified in San Diego. During her trial, her defense claimed she was coerced and brainwashed by the SLA, subjected to torture and manipulation. Despite these claims, Patty was convicted of armed robbery and sentenced to seven years, of which she served two. She was later pardoned by President Bill Clinton.

Vanessa Richardson [22:56]: "Elizabeth took matters into their own hands... almost two years after Patty Hearst was kidnapped, she was finally in custody."

Aftermath and Legacy

Patty Hearst's case sparked widespread debate on victimhood and agency, leaving a lasting impact on public perception of kidnapping and coercion. Her journey from heiress to alleged criminal collaborator remains a subject of intrigue and controversy.

Elizabeth Smart Kidnapping Case (2002-2003)

Background

Elizabeth Smart, a 14-year-old from a devout Mormon family in Salt Lake City, Utah, was abducted on June 4, 2002. Her family was perceived as living in a secure, close-knit community, making her disappearance all the more shocking.

Abduction

Late at night, Elizabeth was forcibly taken from her bedroom when her mother inadvertently left a window open. The abductor, Brian David Mitchell, whom the family had previously employed for odd jobs, and his wife Wanda Barzee, carried out the kidnapping, beginning Elizabeth’s harrowing ordeal.

Vanessa Richardson [22:56]: "Elizabeth knew Brian would only do something if he thought it was his idea."

Captivity and Abuse

Elizabeth endured nine months of captivity, facing severe abuse, including rape and starvation, as Mitchell sought to forcibly marry her under his delusional belief of divine mission. Despite the extensive police search involving bloodhounds, helicopters, and hundreds of searches, Elizabeth remained hidden, primarily due to the couple's mobility and her own attempts to placate her captors.

Vanessa Richardson [30:51]: "Elizabeth was only a few miles from home... she could have heard her own search party looking for her."

Public and Family Efforts

The Smart family tirelessly worked to find Elizabeth, conducting their own media campaigns and releasing key information like composite sketches. It wasn’t until Elizabeth’s younger sister recognized her abductor in a photograph that significant progress was made, ultimately leading to Mitchell and Barzee's identification and capture.

Vanessa Richardson [22:56]: "On February 3, 2003, the Smarts took matters into their own hands."

Rescue and Legal Proceedings

Elizabeth was rescued on March 12, 2003, in Sandy, Utah, when Mitchell and Barzee were recognized and arrested at a Walmart store. Her rescue marked the end of a long and traumatic period, though the legal battles continued for years. Mitchell was convicted on federal charges and sentenced to life imprisonment, while Wanda Barzee served nine years and received probation.

Vanessa Richardson [40:22]: "Elizabeth couldn't seem to wrap her head around the fact that she was rescued."

Aftermath and Advocacy

Post-trauma, Elizabeth Smart became an advocate for sexual violence victims, transforming her tragic experience into a force for positive change. Her story highlights the resilience of victims and the importance of community and family support in recovery and justice.

Comparative Analysis and Conclusions

Both Patty Hearst and Elizabeth Smart’s cases captivated the nation, highlighting vulnerabilities regardless of socioeconomic status. Patty's abduction revealed the complexities of victim agency and the potential for coercion under extreme duress. In contrast, Elizabeth’s ordeal emphasized the relentless pursuit of justice and the critical role of community involvement in resolving such cases.

Vanessa Richardson [22:56]: "These cases caused a national crisis of identity, changing the way we think about safety."

Despite occurring decades apart, both kidnappings challenged societal perceptions of safety and the invincibility of the affluent or tightly-knit communities. Their stories continue to serve as stark reminders of the unpredictable nature of crime and the enduring strength of survivors.

Notable Quotes

• Vanessa Richardson [04:12]: "Patty had been raised in a mansion outside of San Francisco with her parents and four sisters, but she wasn’t interested in following the blueprint her family set for her."

• Vanessa Richardson [22:56]: "On February 3, 2003, the Smarts took matters into their own hands."

• Vanessa Richardson [40:22]: "Elizabeth couldn't seem to wrap her head around the fact that she was rescued."

Conclusion

The February 3 episode of Crime House True Crime Stories offers an in-depth examination of two defining kidnapping cases that not only captivated public attention but also reshaped the conversation around safety, victimhood, and resilience. Through meticulous storytelling and insightful analysis, Vanessa Richardson provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the profound impacts these abductions had on the individuals involved and society at large.

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Episode Credits:
Executive Producer: Max Cutler
Director & Producer: Ron Shapiro
Writer: Kate Murdoch
Developer & Editor: Alex Benedon
Fact Checker: Haniya Saeed
Production Assistance: Sarah Carroll
Host: Vanessa Richardson

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