Teen Abducted By Teacher Is Acting Like Different Person; Family At A Loss

Elizabeth’s Fragile State of Mind

When a person has experienced childhood trauma they are very vulnerable and susceptible to being influenced by those around them. Dr. Janet Rosenzweig, Executive Director of the American Professional Society of the Abuse of Children, told People, “When you have parents who aren’t parenting their child correctly, whether they’re abusive or not, when parents don’t adequately prepare their kids to navigate this crazy period of life called adolescence, they’re incredibly vulnerable.”

A lucky kid will find a mentor in a responsible and trustworthy adult. Elizabeth, however, connected with a child predator. Rosenzweig explained that when this happens, “we end up with tragedy.”

A Broken Family

Just a week after Elizabeth was rescued, her father Anthony filed for divorce from his wife Kimberly Thomas after 30 years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences and inappropriate marital conduct. A judge granted a restraining order that prevents Kimberly from speaking about her daughter’s disappearance. The order will remain in effect until divorce proceedings commence.

Anthony’s divorce lawyer, Cory Ricci, explained, “We are afraid of Ms. Thomas giving interviews or speaking. If it airs, Elizabeth will be terrified. She’s very, very scared of her mother.” Kimberly’s criminal trial for child abuse and neglect is set for review on May 12.