Cleo Smith: Thriving Five Years After Kidnapping
"Cleo is doing well. She is a loving older sister and loves swimming and gymnastics."
The family of Cleo Smith, who was abducted at age four from a campsite in Western Australia in 2021, has shared a positive update on her wellbeing nearly five years on.
Cleo, now eight years old, is described as a loving older sister and is actively engaged in swimming and gymnastics. In a significant milestone, she recently traveled internationally for the first time to compete in a junior gymnastics tournament.
The Kidnapping and Rescue
Cleo Smith was taken from her tent at a remote campsite north of Perth on October 16, 2021. She was held captive for 18 days before being found alive.
Her abductor, Terence Darrell Kelly, pleaded guilty to forcibly taking a child under 16. He was sentenced in April 2023 to 13 years and 6 months in prison, with a non-parole period of 11 years and 6 months.
In September 2024, the Court of Appeal rejected an appeal to reduce his sentence.
Family's Update
Cleo's family reported her well-being in a recent interview with 60 Minutes, emphasizing that she is thriving and enjoying a normal childhood.