In many of the threads on this case, including this one as recently as tonight, posters debate whether this is a real crime with real victims or a victimless hoax.
I think, just my opinion, it is a hoax with real victims.
Here is my list of victims:
1. A young father and husband who fell under--and remains under, as he parades through the media limelight--the sway of a charismatic and histrionic manipulator and showman.
2. A young mother and wife who either [a] fell under the sway of the same cult-like leader, or was the victim of a scheme to which her husband was a party, even as he himself was a victim. Either way, [a] or , she sustained horrifying physical and emotional injuries.
3. Their children.
4. Shasta Cty LE, whose investigations have been sabotaged and whose time and resources have been wasted.
5. Legitimate anti-trafficking and anti-violence-against-women organizations, who will find it harder to raise funds in the future.
6. Future real victims of real kidnappings, whose stories might be met with disbelief.