Attack survivors, not believed by police, get the last word against kidnapper

CBS News
March 29, 2026
3 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

Kidnapping survivors initially disbelieved by police helped convict their attacker and other criminals.

How This Affects You

This case demonstrates how police skepticism of victim reports can delay justice and compound trauma; believing survivors from the outset enables faster criminal accountability and prevents perpetrators from committing additional crimes.

AI Summary

Denise Huskins Quinn and Aaron Quinn, kidnapping survivors who were initially disbelieved by police, collaborated with law enforcement to help identify and prosecute additional crimes committed by their attacker. Their case gained national prominence after authorities skeptically dismissed their account of the 2015 kidnapping, forcing the couple to fight to be recognized as genuine victims rather than perpetrators of a hoax. By working with investigators, the Quinns helped secure justice for other victims while simultaneously vindicating their own experience and reclaiming control of their narrative. The case underscores how initial police skepticism can compound trauma for victims and delay accountability for criminals. Their cooperation ultimately led to convictions related to crimes beyond their own kidnapping, demonstrating the value of believing and supporting survivors from the outset.

What's Being Done

The Quinns cooperated with investigators, leading to convictions for crimes beyond their own kidnapping.

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