Notebook: Never underestimate the power of a victim's voice | Forensic Files

In hearing the story of Jennifer Shuitt, I was struck by her incredible resilience. As a child, she was
kidnapped, assaulted, and left in a field to die. Her attacker slashed her throat, intent on silencing her. But as
Jennifer would later say, he picked the wrong little 45b 8-year-old girl to try and murder.
[Music] After being airlifted to the hospital, Jennifer's wound made it impossible for
her to speak. There was concern she might never be able to talk again. To go from an 8-year-old little girl who
thought she could sing like Mariah Carey, Daisy, Daisy, to being silenced, it was really devastating and
frustrating. But where there's a will, there is a way. I remember wanting a chocolate bar
from the gift shop and being told no and trying to call for my one of my uncles to get me my chocolate bar. In the
process of my frustration and trying to say my uncle's name, a sound came out and it was just
like the world stopped for a moment. I proved everyone wrong. I like to say I haven't shut up
since. And Jennifer used her voice to help police find the man who did this to her.
It took almost 20 years. But Jennifer, with the help of two dedicated law enforcement professionals, got the job
done. With the case finally closed, Jennifer is now a fierce advocate for other crime survivors. And to this day,
she remains close to those who helped her through the darkest chapter of her life.

Jennifer Schuett was an ordinary little girl, who showed extraordinary courage in the face of a horrific attack. Correspondent Michelle Miller has more.

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Brief Summary

Jennifer Shuitt shares her story of survival after a childhood kidnapping and her journey to becoming an advocate for crime survivors.

Key points

Jennifer Shuitt's Resilience. Jennifer's story of survival after a brutal attack showcases her incredible resilience and determination.
Finding Her Voice. After losing her ability to speak, Jennifer fought to regain her voice and identity.
Advocacy for Survivors. Jennifer has become a fierce advocate for other crime survivors, helping them through their struggles.

Episode highlights

Episode quotes

He picked the wrong little 45b 8-year-old girl to try and murder.

Jennifer's defiance against her attacker.

0:18WatchMar 11, 2017

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