20/20 Season 43 Episode 27 Taken

In episode 27 of season 43 of ABC 20/20, titled "Taken," the show explores several cases of kidnapping and abduction. From the terrifying experiences of individuals who have been taken to the processes of law enforcement tasked with finding missing persons, the episode provides insights into the effects of such traumatic events on victims and their families.

The episode features the story of Amber Hagerman, a nine-year-old girl who was abducted in Arlington, Texas, and murdered in 1996. Her kidnapping led to the creation of the Amber Alert system designed to alert the public of missing children. The show examines how the system has evolved over the years and its success stories in reuniting families with their loved ones.

Viewers are also introduced to the story of teenager Jamie Coots, who was taken from her home in Oklahoma at gunpoint by her ex-boyfriend and held captive in the mountains of Montana for weeks. As she tells her story, Jamie shares how she managed to survive and ultimately escape. The episode showcases the emotional impact on her family and how they have supported her through the healing process.

In addition to the firsthand accounts of those who have been taken, the episode looks at the work of law enforcement, including detectives and FBI agents, who investigate the cases of missing persons. It explores the methods used to track down and recover individuals who have been taken and the struggles they face in bringing those responsible to justice.

The episode also examines the prevalence of child trafficking, particularly within the United States. Viewers are presented with statistics on the growing number of cases and how perpetrators use social media platforms, such as TikTok and Snapchat, to lure vulnerable children into dangerous situations.

Illuminating the stories of those who have been through such harrowing experiences, ABC 20/20's "Taken" provides a compelling look into the impact of kidnapping and abduction on individuals and their loved ones. With a focus on survivors and their mental and emotional recovery, the episode underscores the importance of prevention measures, public awareness, and support systems for those affected.