Alien Mission: The Terrifying True Story

Jan Broberg's childhood was shattered by Robert Berchtold, a charismatic family friend she viewed as a second father. In October 1974, Berchtold abducted the 12-year-old, fabricating a story about aliens needing her to save their planet and bear a child. He convinced her that failure would endanger her family.

Berchtold took Broberg to Mexico, where they married. Although she was returned, the psychological manipulation continued. Two years later, on August 10, 1976, Berchtold kidnapped her again to continue his fabricated alien mission. He was eventually caught and served a short jail sentence after pleading guilty to kidnapping.

Berchtold's manipulation extended beyond Jan, involving psychological tactics and alleged assaults on other children. He faced legal battles, including claims of arson and impersonating an agent, but was often acquitted by reason of mental defect. He continued to harass Jan even after her book and speaking engagements.

Jan Broberg has since become an advocate and actress, sharing her story to help others. Her traumatic experiences were documented in "Abducted in Plain Sight" and dramatized in "A Friend of the Family." She founded The Jan Broberg Foundation to support survivors of childhood sexual abuse.