Family Celebrates Cleo Smith’s Remarkable Recovery and Joyous Return to Normal Life Three Years After Her Shocking Kidnapping in Western Australia

✔ Fact Checked by TDPel News Desk

By Pelumi Emmanuel

Published: July 23, 2024 | 3:28 PM

Three years after her shocking kidnapping, Cleo Smith’s family has shared some heartwarming news about their little girl.

Cleo first captured global attention when she was taken from her sleeping bag while camping with her family at Blowholes campsite, around 960km north of Perth, Western Australia, on October 16, 2021.

At just four years old, Cleo was snatched while sleeping next to her mother, stepfather, and baby sister.

A massive police search ensued, culminating in Cleo’s dramatic rescue 18 days later.

Today, at age seven, Cleo has adapted remarkably well to her new normal despite the trauma and intense media coverage.

Recent photos shared by 60 Minutes Australia on Instagram reveal a vibrant Cleo living life to the fullest.

The pictures capture joyous moments with her family, from fishing trips to birthday celebrations, and even her first day of school in 2024.

Heartwarming Reactions

The photos have garnered a flood of positive responses from social media users around the globe.

One person commented, “Beautiful to see the family so happy and healthy,” while another wrote, “Bless your heart, so glad you are living your best life.”

A third noted, “It’s so good to see her happy! I followed her story from Argentina.

Keep enjoying life, Cleo!”

The Rescue Operation

Cleo’s return to her family came after police forced their way into a house in Carnarvon, just 3km from her home, at 12:46am on November 3, 2021.

There, they found Cleo, who had been held captive by Terrence Darrell Kelly, locked alone in a bedroom.

When officers asked her name, Cleo hesitated but eventually answered, “M-my name is Cleo.”

Legal Consequences

Terrence Kelly was arrested and charged with kidnapping.

He pled guilty and was sentenced to 13-and-a-half years in prison on April 5, 2023.

His sentence, backdated to his arrest, means he will be eligible for parole in May 2032, by which time he will be 48 years old.

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About Pelumi Emmanuel

Pelumi Emmanuel is an accomplished writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience in the industry. He is a passionate and dedicated professional who is committed to producing high-quality content that informs, engages, and entertains readers. Pelumi’s love for reading and writing is evident in his work, which has been read worldwide and has garnered him a loyal following. His journalistic expertise is matched only by his natural talent for storytelling, making his articles both informative and engaging. He lives in California, USA.