The Abduction and Strange Family Secrets of Jan Broberg

The story of Jan Broberg is a chilling tale of manipulation, deceit, and betrayal. Taking place in the 1970s in Idaho, it centers around a seemingly perfect family and their close relationship with a trusted family friend who turned out to be a predator. This article delves into the details that led to the investigation, the crimes committed, and the aftermath that shook this close-knit community.

The Picture-Perfect Family

The Broberg family consisted of Bob and Marianne, along with their three daughters: Jan, Karen, and Susan. They lived an idyllic life in Idaho, deeply rooted in their church community. Bob owned a floral shop, which he ran for 40 years, while Marianne was a stay-at-home mom. The family was close, often spending evenings together and maintaining strong bonds with each other.

Jan, the middle child, was particularly lively and outgoing. Her vibrant personality and big smile made her a favorite among family and friends. The Brobergs were well-known in their community for their warmth and friendliness, with a reputation for being the picture-perfect family.

The Arrival of Robert Berchtold

The Brobergs' lives took a drastic turn when Robert Berchtold, whom they called "B," and his family moved to town and began attending the same church. Marianne first noticed them during a service, and soon after, the two families became inseparable. Berchtold quickly ingratiated himself with the Brobergs, showering them with gifts and affection.

Berchtold's charisma and charm won over Bob and Marianne, as well as their daughters. He became like a second father to the girls, especially Jan. The families went on vacations together, and Berchtold often spent time alone with Jan, raising no immediate alarms due to the trust he had built.

Manipulation and Deceit

Berchtold's manipulation of the Brobergs began subtly. He would frequently visit Marianne during the day, knowing she was home alone, and gradually charmed her with compliments and physical affection. Marianne, feeling neglected by her husband, succumbed to Berchtold's advances, leading to an affair.

Simultaneously, Berchtold manipulated Bob into a compromising situation, convincing him to provide "relief" during a drive. This act of manipulation further entangled the Brobergs in Berchtold's web of deceit.

Berchtold's ultimate goal, however, was Jan. He took a particular interest in her, giving her the nickname "Dolly" and frequently spending time with her alone. Despite the growing closeness, the Brobergs trusted him implicitly, believing he was a harmless, caring friend.

The Abduction

The pivotal moment came when Berchtold convinced Marianne to let him take Jan horseback riding. Instead, he drugged Jan, telling her the pill was for her allergies. When Jan awoke, she found herself in an unfamiliar place, with Berchtold spinning a tale of alien abduction and a mission she had to complete to save her family.

Berchtold convinced Jan that she was part alien and needed to have a child with him to save the alien planet. Terrified and manipulated, Jan believed him. Berchtold drove her to Mexico, where he married her under Mexican law, as the legal age for marriage there was only 12 at the time.

Back in Idaho, the Brobergs were frantic. After days of searching and with mounting pressure, they involved the FBI. Investigators tracked down Berchtold and Jan in Mexico, rescuing her and arresting Berchtold. However, Jan's ordeal was far from over.

Continued Manipulation

Despite the abduction, Berchtold's influence over the Brobergs persisted. He convinced Marianne and Bob to drop the charges against him by threatening to expose their respective affairs. Fearful of the social and familial repercussions, they complied, allowing Berchtold to escape severe punishment.

Jan, under Berchtold's manipulation, continued to believe in the alien mission. Berchtold even managed to reenter the Brobergs' lives after serving a minimal sentence. His continued presence and manipulation further strained Jan's relationship with her family, leading her to withdraw and express a desire to be with him.

The Final Escape

Jan's indoctrination by Berchtold lasted until she was nearly 16. As her birthday approached, she realized the alien threats were unfounded, and the supposed mission was a lie. She confided in her best friend and then her family, revealing the full extent of Berchtold's manipulation.

Realizing the truth, the Brobergs took action to sever all ties with Berchtold. Jan filed for a restraining order against him, and he was eventually arrested for violating it. The family also spoke out about their experiences, writing a book and participating in a documentary to raise awareness and prevent similar situations.

Aftermath

Today, Jan Broberg is an advocate for victims of similar crimes, using her story to educate and raise awareness. Her courage in sharing her experiences has helped many others understand the complexities of manipulation and abuse.

Conclusion

Through their story, the Brobergs hope to prevent others from falling victim to similar manipulation, emphasizing the importance of awareness, vigilance, and the strength to speak out.