20/20 October 13 2023: “Snatched”
In 1989, 11-year-old Jacob Wetterling was biking home with his brother and best friend when a masked armed man abducted him just a half-mile from his home. In a new “20/20,” co-anchor Deborah Roberts examines Minnesota’s most notorious kidnapping case that captured national attention and changed the way parents raised their kids. The program reveals new details of the investigation that led to a shocking confession nearly 27 years after Jacob went missing.
“Snatched” features exclusive interviews with Wetterling’s parents, Patty and Jerry Wetterling; Wetterling’s friends, one of whom witnessed the kidnapping; and blogger Joy Baker, whose work with the family helped push for a fresh review of the entire case. Additionally, “20/20” has interviews with investigators and prosecutors who were steadfast on finding Jacob and providing answers to the family. The two-hour program also explores the ripple effects of Wetterling’s abduction on the tight-knit community and the broader issue of child safety as Wetterling’s mother transformed her grief into a lifelong commitment to the cause of missing children. Patty Wetterling also shares intimate details of her unwavering quest to find her missing son as described in her book, “Dear Jacob: A Mother’s Journey of Hope.” “20/20” airs Friday, Oct. 13 (9:01-11:00 p.m. EDT), on ABC, next day on Hulu.
ABC News’ “20/20” is an award-winning primetime program anchored by David Muir and Deborah Roberts. A proven leader as a long-form newsmagazine for over 45 years, “20/20” features unforgettable, character-driven true-crime mysteries, exclusive newsmaker interviews, hard-hitting investigative reports and in-depth coverage of high-profile stories. Janice Johnston is the executive producer. The two-hour “20/20” events air Fridays from 9:01-11:00 p.m. EDT on ABC and are available to stream on ABC News digital platforms and Hulu.
