Steven Stayner's Escape
How did Stayner escape after seven years in captivity?
4.7 (36)
45 mins
Explore how seven-year-old Steven Stayner was abducted in Merced, California, in 1972 by Kenneth Parnell, who kept him hidden and raised him under a false identity for seven years. Uncover how Steven resisted Parnell’s control, escaped at 14 with another kidnapped boy, Timmy White, and deliberately led police to safety, finally ending both boys’ captivity.
Ep 1:
Stolen on Yosemite Parkway
In a quiet California town, a predator decades in the making finally strikes, and seven-year-old Steven Stayner vanishes on his walk home from school.
Ep 2:
Seven Years as Dennis Parnell
Trapped under a false name and a fabricated family, Steven survives years of abuse until the arrival of another kidnapped child forces an impossible choice.
Ep 3:
Coming Home to a Broken World
Steven's daring rescue makes him a national hero, but coming home reveals hidden wounds, hollow justice, and a devastating tragedy no one saw coming.
Ep 4:
The Statue at Applegate Park
As Kenneth Parnell strikes again and Carey Stayner's dark secret surfaces, Merced must reckon with two brothers' legacies and one enduring act of courage.
Discussions (5)
Lyndon
Level 2 · 1 mo agoParnell told a 7yr old his parents gave him away💀
Barry
Level 7 · 1 mo agoDel refusing therapy for Steven wasn't just generational it was neglect. You don't get to search 7 years then kick him out when healing gets hard.
Steele
Level 6 · 1 mo agoSeven years of abuse and Kenneth got seven years max? That's not justice, that's a joke. The system failed Steven twice, once when he was taken and again when his abuser walked out before Steven could even vote.
