How I Feel About Elizabeth Smart's Words to Abductor, Mitchell's Sentence

COMMENTARY | Having lived in Utah, knowing young women raised in the culture, and being related to a mental health therapist, I have strong feelings about the Elizabeth Smart case. When the news of her abduction broke, I felt heartsick to think such a beautiful young girl had been kidnapped and possibly sexually assaulted or killed.

Smart's words to Mitchell

More than eight years after her abduction and rescue, Smart addressed Mitchell at his trial Wednesday. Tweets from the Deseret News DNewsCrimeTeam stated that Smart told him that he knew what he'd done was wrong and that she had a wonderful life and would never let him affect her again.

Mitchell's sentence

Afternoon headlines at ksl.com stated that Judge Dale Kimball sentenced Mitchell to life in prison for his crimes in connection with Smart's kidnapping.

Analysis of Smart's state of mind

I'm certain Smart felt turmoil over reliving the past events during the trial. However, I felt impressed that her words to Mitchell were composed and she stated her feelings clearly. Considering her age at the abduction and that she's still in her 20s , Smart showed amazing maturity and presence of mind while addressing Mitchell, not to mention a tremendous amount of courage in facing her abductor at trial and addressing him at sentencing.

Analysis of Mitchell's sentence

Life in a federal prison holds no options for parole, so a life sentence is as close as it can come (without capital punishment) to being a fair sentence, in my opinion. Based on discussions with other women and mental health therapists, most of us believe Mitchell's antics in the courtroom were not due to real mental issues but to an attempt to receive a lighter sentence or placement in a forensics unit at a mental hospital.

Feelings now that it's over

At this point, what strikes me the most is the prevailing mood among not only TV viewers, but also the media. Relief and happiness best describe it. None of the reporters I listened to defended Mitchell or expressed an opinion that the sentencing was too strict. As for me, I only hope the anguish that Smart suffered can now be alleviated, and because of her courage, others who have suffered similar travesties can now come forward, knowing that justice may be served.

Sources:
Pat Reavy, "Elizabeth Smart to confront her kidnapper for first time since her rescue," ksl.com.