Missing Baby Found After 51 Years: The Incredible Story of Melissa Highsmith
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@KendallRae Жыл бұрын
There are currently some audio issues going on on KZfaq’s side. I have put in a request for help. Sorry for the inconvenience!
@amberjarriel2538 Жыл бұрын
I been thinking it was my Wi-Fi the wholeeee time! Love your podcasts and your husbands!!!
@terridemaio2926 Жыл бұрын
No worries
@emmarockwell7732 Жыл бұрын
It’s still a great listen! Thank you for the awesome video
@JessiLBone Жыл бұрын
It's messed up on my Roku tv. But fine on my phone. So weird
@jaydynallan3715 Жыл бұрын
I thought it was just me. All good though I like to listen when I’m just about to fall asleep so don’t even watch most of the time 😂
@naynayfaxon1698 8 ай бұрын
My sister has been missing for 39 years . Stories like this keep the hope in my heart ❣️
@ASAPLegal 7 ай бұрын
🙏🙏
@BlackStump172 7 ай бұрын
Have you had DNA done on Ancestry and 23 & me ?
@windsong2875 6 ай бұрын
I will pray for you. So very sad, but there is hope!
@phyllislindeboom2215 6 ай бұрын
My brother has been missing also for 39 years, since July 1984! Horrific!!!!!
@monicamayer977 6 ай бұрын
I'm so sorry in both directions
@duckie.thegroomer Жыл бұрын
I was almost taken from the hospital after I was born. This woman was dressed like a nurse and she wanted to take me from my mom to "run tests" on me. But my dad told her no that I was about to be fed and he can bring me to the nurse station when I was done. He brought me up there and the real nurses were confused as to why my dad brought me up. He let them know what happened and they ended up doing a lineup of the nurses on that day and he didn't recognize her. I can't even imagine where I would've ended up if my dad didn't speak up and told her no. This was in '92
@Roxy-Mara Жыл бұрын
That's terrifying!!!
@w_b_c3014 Жыл бұрын
Oh my god there is cases on this happening not sure if it was kendal that did one ona case of a nurse with this same thing about wanting to run tests etc etc , but I know for sure there was one someone did on a nurse taking the baby for tests wasn't until baby hadn't come back that the alarm was sounded but it was too late ... scary stuff
@kallijames-wyrick6900 Жыл бұрын
That’s so crazy
@fighttheevilrobots3417 Жыл бұрын
Where was this located?
@opienattyvlogs7930 Жыл бұрын
Thats scary I was born in 1991
@cyan_eyed Жыл бұрын
The decision to change her name back to her birth name really moved me. After living her entire life with another name? She must feel so whole to be with her true family.
@donnamaldone265 Жыл бұрын
Imagine stealing someone's precious baby, knowing they are desperate to find them, and then not even giving the child a good life. That lady needs to be prosecuted. Even if she just purchased the baby knowing she was missing. She still needs to be held responsible.
@kellyeaton9994 5 ай бұрын
Yes, both the kidnapper and the woman who raised Melissa need to be prosecuted! So evil!
@thelawntreader602 Жыл бұрын
It's mind boggling to me that someone would jump through all the hoops of buying and concealing a child for 50 years if they're not going to actually be a parent.
@ivonne58270 Жыл бұрын
Exactly what i was thinking! Like just return the baby and let her live out her life with her family!
@penelopephelange Жыл бұрын
Isn't that hilarious? 😂 she totally deserved it
@barbaramcmillan3835 Жыл бұрын
If the person who brought her up didn't steal her, she still knew that baby was stolen, and she knew where Melissa came from, and kept her. Otherwise, It was done for money. Maybe someone on drugs or on the streets. No-one can imagine the desperation of someone who would do that. They need to face justice.
@Cowprintsuzie Жыл бұрын
My thoughts exactly.
@Uptownboo84 Жыл бұрын
@@barbaramcmillan3835 EXACTLY!!
@NevadaLamb Жыл бұрын
They bought her for $500?!! Omg 😭 my heart really goes out to Melissa for being bought into a family that didn’t even give her a good upbringing. I’m both so sad and mad for her.
@penelopephelange Жыл бұрын
LMAO she's only worth $500 what a loser
@MariMotherofGoblins Жыл бұрын
It always blows my mind when the story is some variation of, went out of my way to adopt/ (in this case steal) a baby, then neglects them.
@tayloranderson7547 Жыл бұрын
My heart really goes out to Melissa for being brought into a family that didn't even give her a good upbringing. I'm both so sad and mad for her.
@budgiebirdy Жыл бұрын
Supposedly. I mean, who knows for sure. The woman who raised Melissa doesn't sound like someone of good character so anything's possible.
@courtneypuzzo2502 Жыл бұрын
@@rosiero731 actually the 500 baby Melissa was sold for is equal to $3,600 in todays money and yeah it was a lot in the early 70s as min wage was $1.60 in those days my late paternal great grandmother was a custom drapery maker nearing the end of her career she retired in 1972 or 73 and my dad started working in a local Italian American Restaurant called Morelli's one of the first places in East Boston to Deliver food starting around Superbowl 8 in 1975
@user-nt9fs8pg7d 8 ай бұрын
I know this Mother personally. She has grieved for 51 years wondering where her baby was. And the sad part was the baby had no idea she was stolen and then sold. Had a horrible home life and ran away at 15 and lived on the streets for years. But now she is happily married and so happy that she found her natural family.
@annairwin8147 7 ай бұрын
I can’t begin to imagine this mother’s pain
@tara7088 6 ай бұрын
❤❤❤
@phyllislindeboom2215 6 ай бұрын
I can imagine her pain as my own mother and us lost my brother Daniel since he was 18! He disappeared in July 1984. My mother didn't do a missing persons report because she didn't want to be informed that he was gone. I filled missing person report that November. We still haven't found him. Mom passed 2013 still not knowing. Heartbreaking indeed!
@TheAllyathome 6 ай бұрын
@@phyllislindeboom2215💔
@angmoulton8528 6 ай бұрын
@@phyllislindeboom2215hi Phyllis I just wrote a comment under your name on the story about Natalie on nightmare in suburbia ❤❤❤❤
@brandizenczak2756 Жыл бұрын
Mel is my aunt (by marriage) I am so so happy she has found her happy new beginning with her biological family. When I tell you she, of anyone else I've ever ever met, deserves this happy new beginning, it's her.
@jenniferann1969 Жыл бұрын
No doubt, how sad it must be for the rest of your family that she has had to obviously suffer all these years. for the potential stolen. My love to Melissa, and to you all
@tracylalonde4972 9 ай бұрын
@hazelsunman1133You and me both. I don't think I would be able to go on. I would crumble. 😢
@rotrautmellin7543 7 ай бұрын
Jesus helped her to reunite with her birth-family . AMEN ❤❤❤
@kathygeorgiou7687 7 ай бұрын
Were her raising parents charged for kidnapping?
@sooky2253 5 ай бұрын
She had 11 siblings in the area and not 1 could babysit or foster?
@TropicalPlaties Жыл бұрын
The fact that the person who raised her KNEW is absolutely disgusting. It's also disgusting that she purchased a child and still didn't give that child the best life possible! I'm so glad this was solved. I really hope this opens up the possibility to find the person who actually took her and maybe even the ring that may have more children hidden.
@w_b_c3014 Жыл бұрын
That person prob is unlikely alive or at the very end of their life if they haven't already passed which is a shame because that person aswell as the person who purchased Melissa should be pun*shed
@snm3815 Жыл бұрын
I agree!!!
@amber13000 Жыл бұрын
And then to not even give her a good life! What was the point of going through all that trouble to not love and care for her. It's just mind-boggling to me.
@lonamanlpu4379 Жыл бұрын
She knew so she should be charged and face prison
@katyty1496 Жыл бұрын
It's infuriating! It's like this person bought a puppy off some random person and after a while got tired of it! 🤯
@AngieCrystal Жыл бұрын
in my opinion, the lady who bought Melissa should automatically be seen as “involved” in this case. she may not have been involved in the abduction but she bought a child & knowing all these years that Melissa was bought & sold which are crimes in itself but happy she was able to be reunited with her family!💓truly a miracle!
@hansolohansolo Жыл бұрын
Right!? And the fact that she BOUGHT A PERSON… literally means she participated in human trafficking. How is that not an issue being raised here??
@snm3815 Жыл бұрын
100 percent!! She knew that she was abducted. She shouldn’t have her identity kept private and she should be investigated !
@mumtazamiri6409 Жыл бұрын
Totally agree ! Receipt of stolen goods is a crime so how is it not an issue involving a human being ? Should be considered as Child Trafficking! The lady has some explaining to do !
@twothousandandchew Жыл бұрын
@@hansolohansolo you have to buy people in order to adopt 💀what’s the difference between this and adoption
@chucklemethis3329 Жыл бұрын
How th does one even get a false identity for a child anyway? SS gave me trouble right after having one of my babies and I was just trying to secure her birth certificate. Shes fifty and her ss# was never traced to an expired number? How does that work? “Yes, SS so like i had my baby at home a year and a half ago” or was that part of the 500 deal? Refurbished babies comes with new name and ss#
@lovelydarkness2010 Жыл бұрын
I’m really happy the mother lived to see her daughter again. A real heart tugging story.
@MathieuLLF Жыл бұрын
And father and siblings.
@TimeBucks Жыл бұрын
I felt so sorry for Melissa
@user-lz8bd5ow4z Жыл бұрын
very nice
@tapasmahato6279 Жыл бұрын
Nice post
@christinesamo1864 Жыл бұрын
thumbs up
@jadkam52 Жыл бұрын
Very good
@akritidwivedistudies2521 Жыл бұрын
very good
@samthelion3925 Жыл бұрын
She was abducted just to be sold on the street for a measly $500?! Her entire life was ruined for $500?!?! That's insane.
@jazlinalarcon5134 Жыл бұрын
And to top it off she didn’t even give her a good life , poor girl
@headfirst_forhalos Жыл бұрын
I’m pretty sure that’s like 3k during those times but still ur right
@laurynburkett4715 Жыл бұрын
@@headfirst_forhalos very close. $500 in 1971 is equivalent to $3,664.16 today. Crazy
@ghfamghgam1172 Жыл бұрын
Not just her I expect her parents lives were ruined too. Atleast 3 tortured souls for 500? It’s sickening
@tangoingthekitchen Жыл бұрын
$500 back then was probably the equivalent of 1million today, no a defense just a thought to keep in mind
@stephm2658 Жыл бұрын
It's so sweet how Jeff, the brother, never gave up trying to find Melissa. I definitely feel like my older brother wouldn't do the same 😒
@GloomyMarshmallow Жыл бұрын
I agree. He didn't even know her yet he had so much love for her to go and find her!
@BackstabberDD Жыл бұрын
Agreed! What an incredible man, with a heart of gold. All the girls are lucky to have him as a brother.
@penelopephelange Жыл бұрын
He should've given up lol😂
@junglistgrrl Жыл бұрын
Lol at wouldn't do the same. Did you mean would've?
@Jo-hi9oc Жыл бұрын
@@penelopephelange?
@youngfox9578 Жыл бұрын
Could you imagine your baby being stolen from a loving caring home then sold for $500 just to have a heartbreaking upbringing?! She ran way at 15 years old and turned to sex work while being a minor in order to provide for herself. Then imagine being the parents who finally are reunited with their child after 50+ years and she tells them all the heartache she went through… I’m glad she was able to met her true parents before they passed 💕
@MCdreamfaerie 8 ай бұрын
Just the thought that the first move would be to sell them? Like bro I'll give you $5000. Give me back my baby. No questions asked. 😔
@Elizabeth11.11 9 ай бұрын
There should be no statue of limitations for child related crimes!
@bitchlasagna1 Жыл бұрын
Happy endings are the reason I get invested in true crime. Whether it’s someone being found, or someone being brought to legal justice, these are the stories that bring us here
@KendallRae Жыл бұрын
👏🏼 👏🏼 👏🏼
@gwynethjones3503 Жыл бұрын
@@KendallRae May you please turn on auto captioning
@ralithelion Жыл бұрын
I choked on my lasagna when I read your name
@tayloranderson7547 Жыл бұрын
Me too I like true crime. It's someone being found, or someone being brought to legal justice, these are the stories that bring us here
@margyritchie2702 Жыл бұрын
@@tayloranderson7547 it started with Charles Manson La Lady. i was so glad they got him. Loved Helter Skelter, The rxevutioners song and In cold blood. I wss 6
@claire2134 Жыл бұрын
The most poignant aspect of this case to me is the cycle of misfortune occuring here. Alta's mom giving her up led her to having an unstable adult life, which led in part to Melissa's abduction. Then because of the unfortunate events that occured in Melissa's life, all stemming from her kidnapping during her infancy, caused her to have to put her children up for adoption. It's absolutely incredible the chain effect that circumstances from more than half a century ago have on the present here and now.
@lilyg8324 Жыл бұрын
Generational curses are real
@seinfields Жыл бұрын
So true
@karisno7798 Жыл бұрын
Yes, family scripts are a studied social theory. So interesting! Also very common occurrence in the care system
@kayleigh3648 Жыл бұрын
That makes me sad to hear cuz everyone in my family are all effed up to the core. I always thot I’d be the one to break the cycle, but it seems like the cycle never really gets truly broken 😭.
@KatieBellino Жыл бұрын
It's kind of weird how the much adoption happened within the same family.
@Pam-bx2mm 7 ай бұрын
I hope it gave her comfort to know she had parents that loved her all these years. And her brother would not give up looking for her.
@gouriiiz Жыл бұрын
Can we start the found series again please? I mean having that positive story once every few months is kinda nice 👌🏻
@stephlyndsey3932 Жыл бұрын
I hate to hear that Melissa didn't have a healthy childhood, after ALL those people went through to kidnap her the least they could've did is give her the best life!! It's really a blessing that everyone is still alive today and able to reunite, sometimes the truth comes out too late. Best wishes to Melissa and her family!! Make the most of every day!! ❤
@sidology1.0 Жыл бұрын
The confusing thing, why go through all of that just to give the child a poverty life
@stephlyndsey3932 Жыл бұрын
@@sidology1.0 Exactly, so weird
@raimeyewens7518 Жыл бұрын
They stole a baby and sold it for $500. They ruined so many lives for $500. Unimaginable!
@margyritchie2702 Жыл бұрын
The reason we have euthanize so many animals impulse purchase
@KhanMann66 Жыл бұрын
@@sidology1.0 novelty thing. They thought hold raising would be a piece of cake until they realized how difficult it is and then decided they want any responsibility in raising the child anymore.
@mzluna313 Жыл бұрын
Even in the 70's it was definitely illegal to buy a toddler from a street peddler! The woman who kinda half assed raised her was definitely involved and should be held accountable!
@TJ-bn2cn Жыл бұрын
It’s very difficult to have an opinion of a mother who is trying to work while having a child and support her child. While the farther just walks away believing his child can live off fresh air! I really feel for this mother.
@ukiealby Жыл бұрын
So happy that the parents both lived to see what happened to Melissa 🥺
@elscheib Жыл бұрын
It's amazing that she and her parents are all still alive to see the resolution of this case. The parents didn't die without ever finding their daughter like I'm sure the majority do, and she was found alive and well. Good for them.
@krista0784 Жыл бұрын
Yes! That’s what I was thinking. I’m so glad they lived to see their daughter again and know she was okay.
@stephaniemontgomery2479 Жыл бұрын
The fact that the woman who bought her knew who she was the entire time and never said a word even after she was a grown adult is so sad. I’m just happy that both her bio parents and all her siblings were alive to finally meet her after all these years. God is good…and bless everyone who was involved in bringing her home
@MathieuLLF Жыл бұрын
It's more than sad, it's criminal. She bought a child off the street. She should be in prison.
@hollystiener16 Жыл бұрын
@@MathieuLLF I have said the same thing
@lulub1433 Жыл бұрын
So True. She must be an extra special kind of evil to keep a secret like that
@kathrynbeetham5308 11 ай бұрын
So if "God is good" why did God let this happen in the first place?
@stephaniemontgomery2479 10 ай бұрын
@@kathrynbeetham5308 God didn’t “let” that happen. God doesn’t stop bad things from happening but He does help us get through them. Good things happen and so do bad things but we have have God by our side through every thing. He helps us through our struggles and our victories
@clairecarty906 Жыл бұрын
That is insane! The woman who raised Melissa and bought her off the street is as much liable as the person who kidnapped her! She should have turned this baby into authorities to send her back home. And to hear that Melissa moved out as a teenager and got involved in sex work?! Melissa knew something was off and this woman who raised her was no where to be found. I hope she has some charges.
@anitawoods7174 7 ай бұрын
To me it feels like the women who bought her might be much more involved . Maybe she´ s the one who instigated the whole kidnapping, got the kidnapper to abduct the baby for $500. The ”bought her on the street” doesn´ t sound true
@Hbd2002 7 ай бұрын
Why is there a statute of limitations on kidnapping?
@artistdrummer45 6 ай бұрын
I agree. Some parts of this story makes no sense. Someone who pays 500dollars for a child off the street has to be seriously disturbed. Where did this person get so much money? Didn't it occur to the person that someone or the police are looking for this child? ALSO, Melissa should be 52 or 53 at the time of the reunion. SHE LOOKS LIKE SHE IS OVER 60 a lot of info is missing here
@leenaalamari7914 Жыл бұрын
It’s horrible that someone can watch someone else cry for their missing child while knowing they have them. How do you do that?!
@GetSicRiCH Жыл бұрын
*_Statute of Limitation_* → it seems unfair that a deadline could pass, while the crime is not even revealed. Like, if Melissa _just found out_ after all of these years, that she was abducted, you would think that the *LAW* would begin _when the crime is revealed._ So, Melissa’s parent who raised her after abduction, would face justice, and the time statute would begin upon the moment the crime is discovered.
@arbitrary_raspberry Жыл бұрын
Especially like if you have stolen something 20 years ago (like an object) that's history right?? But a baby?? You know its not normal to buy a human being! They knew her real identitity. Which means they were partaking in this abuction for years. The crime was still going on .. how can a deadline pass then? I don't understand the law sometimes.. doesn't feel like justice to me
@chay2033 Жыл бұрын
Yep that’s the only thing I find kind of disappointing in this story . The woman who bought her should face justice…and maybe if it was the case it might have raised the chances to find the person who abducted her . This situation is a case of human trafficking. That’s a crime . Period .
@LisaJoSchiele Жыл бұрын
The Highsmiths hope to get the chance to challenge that law ❤️
@dream-nz9yb Жыл бұрын
@@chay2033 agreed, she has no remorse. If charges were brought on her, she might give up valuable information for a lesser sentence?
@luvsilly60 Жыл бұрын
Seems the crime is ongoing. Limitation should not have started.
@montanalloyd7269 Жыл бұрын
It is so heartwarming listening to Jeff talk about how he feels it was his life's work to find his older sister. So sweet💕
@lornocford6482 Жыл бұрын
The sibling bond is amazing, even for siblings never known to one of them. I think he also really wanted to eleviate his mother's pain.
@luciemarinov129 6 ай бұрын
So happy she was finally reunited with her family. Very dedicated brother to devote himself to finding his lost sister. The evil person who bought her off the streets should be prosecuted fully, should have brought the baby to the police, gave her a horrible life, so it’s forced her to run away at 15 and live as a prostitute have to give up 3 babies for adoption, it’s a miracle she is as well mentally as she is. 😢
@BrookeClyde Жыл бұрын
How could you take a baby from a loving family and then not at least give her a good life? Wtf I’m so glad she was reunited with her family ❤
@chilltheheckoutwithava1454 Жыл бұрын
The way she says “my father” Just hit me in the heart 🥲
@uubish Жыл бұрын
I hope Melissa writes a book on her life. What a crazy story. My heart hurts for her all the trauma she and her bio family went through for someone else’s selfish gain. For $500?! It’s sickening.
@amna_dhanani Жыл бұрын
Definitely. Need to know more about her life
@nanali7245 Жыл бұрын
I hope that big void in all of them is filled now & they can all start healing
@StarryInkArt Жыл бұрын
Agreed 😔
@Idiotbox186 Жыл бұрын
Despite the horrible things that happened to her, Melissa seems like she turned out to be such a sweet woman. So happy for all of them!
@v.958 Жыл бұрын
She's precious! At least that's my impression from seeing the footage of her.
@penelopephelange Жыл бұрын
She should've stayed missing haha
@alandrosstettina1843 Жыл бұрын
@@penelopephelange Shut your mouth.
@strawberrrys Жыл бұрын
@@penelopephelange why?
@penelopephelange Жыл бұрын
@@strawberrrys Cause it'd be hilarious 😂
@lillianpharis608 Жыл бұрын
Her father and brother came to my church while in Charleston, and my family helped them get to their vigil to raise awareness and back to the airport. They were so incredibly hopeful and sweet. They were actually turned away from a local mega church and were kicked out by security for asking to pass out flyers, we were so angry for them. But sooo so excited when we heard they had been reunited!!
@deboraholsen2504 7 ай бұрын
This story really touches me because I was also abandoned by my 3 month old baby’s father. I was 27 and we also had a 3 year old son. I strongly felt compelled to go back to college asap so that I could become a teacher and support us financially, as their father basically disappeared. I remember I felt so alone and it was so hard to find a good babysitter! I had tried out three babysitters and with one of them, my baby girl would cry all day. FINALLY, when my daughter was nearly two years old, I found the perfect, loving, kind, trustworthy babysitter! I was so happy!!! I was just lucky, though I had been praying for help in finding one. Even so, I had known little about the first three, and there could have been a bad outcome as there was in this story, though I did know where the babysitters lived and it was a home daycare situation. I cannot imagine the pain that Melissa’s parents went through when they lost their precious baby! I will forever be grateful that mine survived during the time I was all alone with them for many years.
@shaestewart5261 Жыл бұрын
The story is amazing! So often, when a missing child is reunited with the birth family after 30, 40 years or more, it’s bittersweet because the parents and/or older siblings have already passed. This story is special and so unique because, eve.after 51 years, Melissa’s entire immediate family is still alive and able to meet their daughter and sister!
@cierragayler Жыл бұрын
Really happy both parents are alive to see this, hurts my soul when parents pass on and don’t get a “happy ending”
@boobamama6881 Жыл бұрын
I just came upon your story Kendall, doing a search for Melissa's story to show my best friend.I love watching your videos.y uncle is Jeffrey Highsmith. I got to meet Melissa in March at a family gathering, and she is one of the sweetest people I have ever met. Thank you so much for doing her story Makes our hearts so full
@terriehumphries6028 Жыл бұрын
I have lived in Ft Worth for over 35 years. I remember when my Aunt adopted me, she mentioned this case because she did not want me running off by myself. I was 15 but this was one of those cases that you just heard about. Melissa and I are very close in age so it really hits home to hear about this. I am so glad she was found.
@theresataylor6675 Жыл бұрын
I just sat and cried. As a mother I can't begin to imagine the pain this family has endured. Thank God for such a happy ending. I wish them nothing but happiness for the future.
@samanthaunger8143 Жыл бұрын
Statute of limitations always angers me in cases like these. There should be no time limit put on how this individual destroyed Melissa and her family’s lives 😞 very happy they all got to reunite though ❤
@jacquelinemiller1260 Жыл бұрын
I agree with you.
@theoryofpersonality1420 7 ай бұрын
Kidnapping was up to the day she found out.
@lindaaspromonte1514 7 ай бұрын
I so agree!
@dawny2985 Жыл бұрын
I am just glad her parents were still alive to see this reunion❣
Жыл бұрын
The person who bought her and says she knew she was baby Melissa should also be held responsible... So glad this story had a happy ending after all these years though!
@hansolohansolo Жыл бұрын
Right!? She literally participated in human trafficking and were just going to pretend like that’s not a crime…? If they find a way around the statute of limitations, I hope that person is prosecuted.
@seachelle3444 Жыл бұрын
The statute of limitations ran out 20 years after her 18th birthday. There's nothing they can do as of yet
Жыл бұрын
@@seachelle3444 which makes it all the more infuriating!
@seachelle3444 Жыл бұрын
@ I agree
@tomsevcik1792 Жыл бұрын
I think the person will be found and held responsible. If Melissa ended up alive and reunited after all these years theres a same level of hope towards justice.
@isabelle8836 Жыл бұрын
I felt so sorry for Melissa, she got kidnapped and the family raised her was awful. I am so happy she found her biological family.
@shainazion4073 Жыл бұрын
I have a friend that was bought for $5,000.00 in 1966. She has just done DNA testing about 5 years ago. It led her to several relatives.
@CrypticCharm Жыл бұрын
i read an article about this a few weeks ago, and what Melissa went through after her abduction was heartbreaking. i really hope she gets the help she needs, because her life has been filled with so much trauma. to know that her bio parents were only a few miles away. it's so heartbreaking what this entire family has gone through
@figgityfly Жыл бұрын
Thank you for making this video. A friend of mine had a brother that was kidnapped by his father in another country. His brother was missing from age 3 until 19 years old. My friend became a federal worker in the US and searched for his brother and found him. He was living with his father in the states. His brother had no idea his stepmother was not his biological mother. It is a sad story but has a happy ending like this one.
@maddydow1217 Жыл бұрын
I can't even imagine trying to wrap your head around finding out that you'd been kidnapped and then sold. I hope they're able to spend as much time together as possible and make fantastic memories as a whole family.
@WaterBottleBlues101 Жыл бұрын
I cried watching this. Poor Melissa suffered so much. What a blessing that she found her true family.💞
@Mekanayze Жыл бұрын
She looks alot like her mother, and im so so glad the parents are still alive for the news and to be able to put the mystery to rest.
@taylornicole7845 Жыл бұрын
As a new mom I can’t imagine this, poor mom and daughter. I think it’s so amazing she changes her name back to original name and said “the women that raised me” and not my mother, my heart is so happy for everyone in this story The fact there is a statute of limitations for cases like is mind blowing, I don’t care if the person is 70+ they deserve to spend there last years in jail
@ellzietwinkle1089 Жыл бұрын
There should never be a statute of limitations on child abductions or child targeted crimes or violent crime. The person who bought Melissa should be charged with purchasing a human being. I am happy she was found & reunited with her biological parents. I do hope to hear more about accountability from this case. Melissa grew up to be a beautiful woman, like her Mom. I hope they can remain close & heal.
@JaneDoe-ng3zm 8 ай бұрын
In the bible kidnapping had the death penalty it is a REALLY EVIL ACT unforgivable law in our country sucks people that harm children WALK
@jessicayoung6208 Жыл бұрын
I’m so surprised you’ve kept up with your channel so much after Holly. But I’m glad you’ve stuck around for us. We all appreciate you and the work you do sharing these stories, raising money for so many good causes, etc. Hope you, Josh and Holly are doing well and staying blessed.
@dianneyoungblood689 8 ай бұрын
Odd…little hats & bows. Definitely a different life for Melissa. Maybe some mental health issues after what she went thru!
@scout72430 Жыл бұрын
So happy she was found, but my heart breaks for the childhood she had. I'll never understand why people buy or adopt or foster children only to abuse them. I hope Melissa is able to heal with her family.
@ashleebooks8084 Жыл бұрын
Hi, Kendall. Please cover the case of Kamiyah Mobley. You covered a similar case a couple years ago when your channel was taking off, but the cases are extremely different apart from a baby being abducted from a hospital and raised by their kidnapper. Kamiyah Teresiah Tasha Mobley was born on July 10, 1998. That same day, at around three o'clock in the afternoon, baby Kamiyah was kidnapped by a woman named Gloria Williams, who wanted to keep her relationship with her boyfriend, and took Kamiyah so she could pretend that the baby is her daughter. Kamiyah was raised as Alexis Kelli Manigo by Gloria and was found in January 2017 after DNA tests proved she was not Gloria's daughter. Kamiyah still maintains a relationship with her kidnapper and views Gloria as her mother as opposed to her biological mother, Shanara Mobley.
@MeganSaidThis Жыл бұрын
Just looked that up, feel so bad for Shanara, how upsetting.
@MsBossLadyLola Жыл бұрын
I heard about that story. That’s so nasty and fucked up and sad that she wanted to keep her relationship with her kidnapper. That’s literally Stockholm syndrome
@saafiiiraa Жыл бұрын
@@MsBossLadyLola Obviously she cannot just forget the person she's known as her mother, regardless of her 'mother's' atrocious act.
@animestarz1768 Жыл бұрын
I definitely feel for the bio mother, I can't imagine that kind of emotional pain. but I do not think it's unrealistic that Kamiyah still views her kidnapper as her mother. her bio mother is essentially a stranger to her and it will take time to build a bond. it's also traumatic to find out someone who raised you and loved you isn't your actual mother, and she stole you.
@bbykashh Жыл бұрын
@@PainterFleites I mean when you’re raised by fucked up people like that they make you just as fucked up. That poor lady deserves better it seems like. Fuck her daughter. That’s so messed up. She’s acting like her mom gave her away which I’m almost CERTAIN her kidnapper is telling her that’s the case and the daughter is brainwashed af
@MunchyLifeTrinidy Жыл бұрын
This is truly such a beautiful ending and Melissa looks so much like her baby pic! I am so sad for her though. The fact that she was purchased by people who didn’t give her a good childhood is truly heartbreaking. I hope she is finding healing and happiness now that she understands more and gets to know her siblings and parents.
@KelseyDawnMiller Жыл бұрын
It’s so exciting not only that she was found & reunited but that her parents are still alive & got an answer!
@Pureserpent Жыл бұрын
Brought tears to my eyes, the feeling they must’ve felt must’ve been an incredible high 💕
@mombeach Жыл бұрын
So horrible! Whoever sold her for $500 needs to be jailed. Also the buyer! My heart goes out to Melissa. So sad she had to be a sex worker to get by. I pray she can be reunited with her 3 Kids someday soon.
@cheryldian Жыл бұрын
Such a heart warming story, Her Dad aged well and you can tell she's been through a lot .
@dhamarmiranda6446 Жыл бұрын
Folllwing true crime is such an emotional rollercoaster, but it’s stories and cases like these that make it worth it. It makes it easier to look at the missing posters, share the Facebook post, read the description, etc. I’m so happy for her and her family ❤️
@melissajacobs5822 Жыл бұрын
Holy crap, there is absolutely NO resemblance in those age progression photos. Not even friggin close 🤦 Im glad that she's been reunited with her family
@anikarogers5569 Жыл бұрын
Finally someone said it, was going to say the same thing.
@melissajacobs5822 Жыл бұрын
@@anikarogers5569 legit the worst ive seen!
@harmonyleigh3760 Жыл бұрын
Oh Kendall… you’ve done it again! Always shining light to the darkness. ♥️♥️
@christyadkins9218 8 ай бұрын
Why would a mother pass her daughter off without a phone number, without an address, without anything? That’s crazy.
@MaineCoonMama18 Жыл бұрын
It's incredibly heartbreaking that Melissa had such a difficult life when she could and should have been raised by her loving family. I'm so glad they can all be together, heal and build that bond now.
@iviebelle Жыл бұрын
imagine being so selfish that you buy someone else’s baby and not only that but you can’t even properly take care of the baby so that she becomes a run away??? like are you serious!?! and you KNOW whose baby it is and you don’t even say anything, no anonymous letter or anything to give her real family a chance to save the child you were responsible for ruining.
@sineadf.947 Жыл бұрын
Hi Kendall, please consider covering some Irish cases, Amy Fitzpatrick, Noah Donohoe or Raonaid Murray for example. It would be wonderful to see them brought to attention again
@sadcase1girl125 Жыл бұрын
I love happy endings! So glad that Melissa was reunited with her biological family! After the hard life she has been through, they all deserve to be together and loved!
@angiedasner Жыл бұрын
What a great “found” story. To buy a baby for $500 is unbelievable and then for the baby to have such a bad home experience. I hope her original family and God’s love can help her resolve this emotional trauma.
@raechelgrantham8134 Жыл бұрын
There's just a way to your story telling that conveys so much respect and empathy for the victims (living or otherwise) that sets you apart. Thank you for covering this bittersweet story.
@whitwillie4052 Жыл бұрын
Not only is it tough for the parents of a missing child to learn they aren’t related to the person being looked for, but I’m sure it’s equally as painful for the once upon a time, child to learn it isn’t a match as well. Im so glad this story has a happy ending
@Clemontines Жыл бұрын
I heard about this case first from “the vanished” podcast it’s amazing to hear she was found. The exclusive interviews they had on the pod from the family were heartbreaking!! So glad to hear it
@storytimewithkay Жыл бұрын
I saw this on Instagram and couldn't wait for you to cover it and hear the details! What a happy ending to a rough life for all of them. I hope they have nothing but happiness from here on out. ❤️
@GetSicRiCH Жыл бұрын
*Melissa Highsmith* is absolutely adorable!!! i Am so happy for her and her family!! 𝖍𝖆𝖑𝖑𝖊𝖑𝖚𝖏𝖆𝖍 🙌✨
@amirrhodesve791 Жыл бұрын
It makes no sense as why carol couldn't have watched Melissa??? Why would she just hand over a child over to this sus person when you are going to be home looking after you kid? All of this is very suspicious.
@stephw1702 Жыл бұрын
Agree. Part of me can't help but wonder if it was she who sold Melissa. Really hope that is off the mark.
@amirrhodesve791 Жыл бұрын
@@stephw1702 that's what I was thinking,.maybe she moved in with her to make this whole plot work? Or something like that? Because there's a big ? Mark about how she disappeared.
@heathercurry2576 Жыл бұрын
My heart is so happy that both parents were still alive at the time she was found!!
@nicolerain3127 Жыл бұрын
As someone who is adopted and found my biological family about 12 years ago, thanks to the internet, I know how overwhelming it is to reunite with your birth family and as an adult, getting to know a large group of people and their life stories and sharing yours with them takes time, effort, patience, understanding and allowing yourself to trust and be vulnerable but its also very rewarding if the experience is positive. Its sad that the Statue of limitations has expired but the best justice here has already been served. I'm sorry Melissa went through a rough time in her life and it makes you wonder why someone would go through illegally becoming a parent, just to neglect the care of that child but its obvious that perhaps that person's heart wasn't fully in it to began with, obviously. None the less, technology is amazing, dangerous at times but amazing none the less and DNA and the internet has allowed such a fulfilling reunion. Jeff is amazing. His diligence and dedication has helped change lives! GOD bless NECMEC and Mrs. Rae as well, for helping to change people lives for the better as well as all those that make contributions, it is grately appreciated and I am wishing everyone the best! You are amazing Mrs. Rae. I appreciate how you use your channel, platforms and influence to do such positively amazing things. Please keep going! 🙏🏾💛🙏🏾
@TheOriginalRick 8 ай бұрын
I found my bio-father's family when I was 65 thru DNA testing. He had passed away much earlier. They welcomed me with open, loving arms and totally accepted me as a key part of the family that was just misplaced for a while. I know that it doesn't happen to everyone like that.
@Barbara34710 Жыл бұрын
I'm watching True crime less and less nowadays, however , I love Kendall's voice and how she delivers stories, so here I am. ❤️
@goblin1873 Жыл бұрын
My girlfriend and someday wife and I love your content. She introduced me and I love how respectfully you cover these topics.
@porkahontas Жыл бұрын
I was so happy when I found out that her parents were still alive and able to reconnect with her. Truly a blessing.
@elizabeth184 Жыл бұрын
This is a classic example of why dna should be put on file at birth. It would help so much in missing persons cases and crimes generally.
@mystery_sauce Жыл бұрын
He never gave up! That was amazing of him!!! that was great thanks kendall. You gave me the courage to start my own true crime channel
@AV-rw7te Жыл бұрын
Glad both her parents were still alive to see her
@Minokeful 8 ай бұрын
I hope the lady who bought and concealed Melissa is brought to justice. I'm glad Jesus saved and restored her. God is good!
@michellebonano6384 Жыл бұрын
My heart really goes out to her. Why buy a child if you’re not gonna do your best to give them a great life? Like wtf! And her bio parents were clearly good loving people 😢
@carrie9367 Жыл бұрын
It’s so strange the the woman buying a child on the street and learning that she is a missing child (as Melissa said, she knew) , but never went to the authorities this? Only a guilty person avoids situations like that!
@12ctube Жыл бұрын
Cannot imagine the pain and anxiety of not knowing what happened, so glad Melissa got healthy and safe after such a rough start, unbelievable story
@lisalu7343 Жыл бұрын
As an older viewer, I can guarantee that this person did not consider gloves to keep from transferring DNA. I know it is so ubiquitous now that it is hard to imagine, but as the general public we were not aware of DNA until the OJ Simpson trial in the 90s.
@Boing2699 Жыл бұрын
They didn’t find Melissa through transferred DNA, they found her through Genealogy database submission from one of her children. 23 and me type website, basically. It lets you know of close relatives. And if the government is trying to find a missing person, they will scan things like that to see if there is a match or any close relatives to the match.
@lisalu7343 Жыл бұрын
@@Boing2699 my comment was about Kendall's statement that the person who came to the door to pick up the child was wearing gloves either to conceal the fact that he was not a woman or to keep from transferring DNA. Not about how they found Melissa.
@jeisselima Жыл бұрын
So interesting! I was sure on the dna bit but had no idea on the OJ thing
@lisalu7343 Жыл бұрын
@@jeisselima Sadly, it was another thing that worked in OJ's favor. The jury did not understand the dna technology since most had not heard of it. If I remember correctly, there was dna matching the victims on the glove found at his house, but after hours of dna testimony trying to explain it, the jury was skeptical. It would probably be a slam dunk today.
@good1day726 Жыл бұрын
She probably meant fingerprints
@begentlebutdontallowshit2549 Жыл бұрын
To anyone that might be reading this, I wish that whatever is hurting you or whatever you are constantly stressing about gets better. I sincerely wish everyone that happiness enters your hearts and let all the stress and sadness vanish out of your life...as you know nothing in life is ever easy, but what's important is that you keep going! you're worthy of love and happiness, never allow anyone to tell you otherwise! It can be extra hard sometimes but stay strong and hang in there, your life matters, no one can replace you, I'm thankful you're born and I'm sure your struggles will pass soon! I wish all of you plenty of health and strength during these tough times. remember you are strong, you got this! never forget that! sending much love over towards all of you, May god or whatever you might believe in bless you the way you need it to! ♥️🌟
@resurrect1490 Жыл бұрын
You’re a wonderful person, thank you and God bless you!
@jenninahornagold1215 Жыл бұрын
I’ve been following you for 3-4 years now!!! You have come so far girl and i’m so happy for your husband & you & your precious baby girl!!
@MonikaRosaable Жыл бұрын
Stories like this makes me appreciate how overly strict and protective my mom was when I was little. I used to hate that I didn’t have my own life but now I’m grateful my mom wasn’t that easy trusting
@kennawap Жыл бұрын
Same!
@midwesternmomma Жыл бұрын
I can't imagine living my entire life thinking I was someone else and missing out on growing up with my siblings 😢
@descaprice1995 Жыл бұрын
Kendall just wanted to thank you for all your hard work , while being a 1st time mom. Your amazing and we love you
@tianadavis9840 Жыл бұрын
This is amazing but also so heartbreaking. She was pulled from her loving mother to be raised by someone who knew she was the kidnapped child and kept that secret even after she left to work the street.
@DiianaLovee Жыл бұрын
I live in Fort Worth and I saw this story when it broke through on our neighborhood next door app. I am so happy that the parents were still around to see her 🥰
@qwenyodi2478 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for including more info about NCMEC
@breeethompson Жыл бұрын
your videos bring so much attention to people on missing people cases and just in general cases and i am so happy to be subscribed to someone who uses their platform to help others !!! ❤❤❤ love you
@sheenam4136 Жыл бұрын
Every time I see a billboard with missing people, I ALWAYS stop to read their names. Those boards are always at Walmart and Rest Stations. Take a moment to just acknowledge. That could be your child, sibling, uncle, aunt, friend, mom, dad, it could even be you 😔
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