Jayme Closs: Surviving Kidnapping and Escaping

Jayme Closs’ story is one of resilience and survival. Jayme was abducted at the age of 13 and suffered unimaginable pain before reclaiming her freedom. Her case gained national attention, raising questions about safety, justice, and the human spirit’s strength. Here, we look at every aspect of the Jayme Closs case, from the night of her kidnapping to her miraculous escape and what lies ahead for her.

Who Was Jayme Closs?

Jayme Closs was a 13-year-old girl from Barron, Wisconsin, whose life took a terrible and terrifying turn in October 2018. Jayme Closs, James and Denise’s only child, was born on July 13, 2005. Friends and family remembered her as a bright, kind, lively little girl who enjoyed dancing, music, and spending time with her family.

On the night of October 15, 2018, her world was destroyed when her parents were brutally murdered at home, and she was kidnapped by a stranger who painstakingly planned the crime.

The Night of Kidnapping

On October 15, 2018, a quiet night in Barron, Wisconsin, became a nightmare for the Closs family. When a stranger broke into their house, Jayme Closs was at home with her parents, James and Denise Closs. The intruder, later identified as Jake Thomas Patterson, shot and killed both parents with a shotgun before abducting Jayme. Patterson, who had no prior connection to the Closs family, had targeted Jayme after seeing her board her school bus.

What Happened to Jayme Closs During 88 Days?

Jayme Closs was held hostage for 88 excruciating days in a remote cabin owned by Jake Thomas Patterson near Gordon, Wisconsin. Patterson, who painstakingly arranged her kidnapping, confined her to a small, minimally furnished room in his home. The cottage, located in a remote place surrounded by trees, became Jayme’s jail, keeping her off from the outside world and any possibility of speedy rescue.

Life in captivity

Jayme’s daily existence was characterized by dread and control. Patterson designed terrible techniques to ensure she didn’t escape or attract attention.

• Hiding Under the Bed: Patterson forced Jayme to remain hidden under his twin-sized bed, surrounded by heavy totes and weighted with objects to keep her from moving. She was confined there for hours, sometimes without food, water, or bathroom access.
• Strict Rules and Threats: Patterson imposed a culture of silence and compliance. He cautioned Jayme that any effort to escape would result in severe repercussions, including injury to herself or others.
• Isolation: Due to the cabin’s secluded location, Jayme was utterly isolated from help. Patterson rarely left her alone except on short trips when he thought she had no chance of escaping unnoticed.

Psychological Impact

Though law enforcement established that Jayme was not sexually molested, the psychological toll of her captivity was significant. She lived in constant fear, mourned her deceased parents, and wondered if she’d ever survive or be found. 

How Did Jayme Closs Escape?

Jayme’s January 10, 2019, escape demonstrated her daring and resourcefulness. The opportunity arrived when Jake Patterson briefly left the house, assuming she was safely imprisoned and incapable of leaving.

Jayme noticed her captor’s absence and seized the chance to free herself. Summoning every ounce of courage, she:

• Pushed Aside the Barriers: Patterson had trapped her beneath the bed by stacking heavy totes and other objects. Jayme managed to shift these barriers and crawl out.
• Found a Pair of Shoes: She pulled on a pair of big shoes Patterson had left nearby, knowing she would have to travel outside in the frigid Wisconsin weather.
• Left the Cabin: Jayme escaped the cabin and ran through the icy, wooded countryside. Despite her fear and the disorienting surroundings, she persevered until she found help.

Jayme was approached by Jeanne Nutter, a local woman walking her dog in the area. Nutter recognized Jayme from the nationwide search and media coverage and brought her to a neighbor’s home, where they called 911. Jayme was calm but visibly frightened, only uttering, “I’m Jayme Closs.” Law enforcement quickly arrived, and Patterson was arrested shortly after.

Jayme Closs Kidnapper: Jake Thomas Patterson

Jake Thomas Patterson, then 21, confessed to his crimes. He claimed he saw Jayme at a bus stop and decided to kidnap her because she was “the girl he wanted.”

Patterson was charged with two charges of first-degree intentional homicide for killing Jayme’s parents, one offense of kidnapping, and one count of armed burglary. In May 2019, he was condemned to life in jail without the chance of parole.

Jayme Closs Life Now

Jayme Closs now lives a private life with her extended family while focusing on her health. Many people are still inspired by her bravery, and she has received numerous awards and recognition.

The community and law enforcement have commended Jayme’s resilience and resourcefulness. Smart Justice: The Jayme Closs Case has investigated the crime and emphasized the importance of victim support.

Legal and Social Implications

Cases like Jayme’s highlight the gaps in justice systems. For example, headlines like “Judge lets man out after three kidnappings, does it again?” draw attention to the need for stricter measures against repeat offenders. However, in Jayme’s case, Jake Patterson is unlikely ever to leave prison.

Similar “Kidnapping” Cases:

• The Strange Disappearance of Bryce Laspisa
• Junko Furuta: A Shocking Tale of Suffering and Justice
• Jonelle Matthews: The Cold Case That Shocked America
• Ariel Castro Kidnappings: Inside the Cleveland Abductions

Conclusion

The Jayme Closs case reminds us of the dangers that can arise unexpectedly. However, her story is also one of hope and survival, showcasing the strength of the human spirit even in the darkest times. While her ordeal has left scars, Jayme’s bravery and determination to escape highlight the importance of never giving up, no matter the odds.

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