Fairview Heights, IL– A Missouri man has been sentenced to nearly sixteen years in federal prison after kidnapping his pregnant girlfriend at gunpoint, driving her across state lines, and attempting to force her into an abortion she no longer wanted. The case, which stunned both investigators and prosecutors, has been described as one of the most disturbing coercion-related domestic violence incidents to cross into federal jurisdiction.
Kidnapping Began After Victim Chose to Keep Her Pregnancy
According to federal authorities, 42-year-old Kevin Smith became enraged after learning his girlfriend intended to keep her pregnancy. The night before the incident, both had initially agreed she would have an abortion. But when she told Smith her decision had changed, his reaction quickly escalated into threats.
Court documents reveal that Smith told her, “I’m going to kill you, b—,” setting the stage for the violence that followed. Investigators say he arrived at her workplace—a gas station in St. Charles, Missouri—the next day and forced her into his car at gunpoint.
Forced Trip Across State Lines
During the approximately 40-minute drive to a Planned Parenthood location in Fairview Heights, Illinois, Smith allegedly used a loaded firearm to control and terrify the victim. Authorities noted multiple threats, including statements like:
“It will be real motherf— funny when I blow your brains out.”
The victim discreetly texted her family during the ordeal, writing messages such as “[H]e got a gun on me cause I’m pregnant” and “He said if anybody pull up he gone kill me first.” Her family immediately called 911, prompting officers to respond to the clinic.
Police Capture and Arrest at Planned Parenthood
Police arrived within minutes and were provided the description of a white Dodge Charger with Missouri plates. Officers located the vehicle in the parking lot, where Smith attempted to flee but was quickly stopped. He threw a Glock 27 out the window before surrendering.
Body-camera footage later captured Smith saying, “It’s my son’s birthday and I’m trying to prevent having another kid,” underscoring the motive behind the horrifying incident.
Judge Condemns Crime as Calculated and Prolonged
Smith initially faced state charges—including aggravated kidnapping with a firearm and unlawful restraint—but the federal case moved forward due to the interstate nature of the crime.
The federal judge overseeing sentencing, District Judge Stephen McGlynn, sharply criticized Smith for the level of planning involved. In court, he told Smith:
“This wasn’t a momentary lapse… You had time to plan. You had time to think about the ramifications.”
The judge emphasized that Smith had multiple opportunities to stop—driving to her workplace, sitting in the car beforehand, and crossing state lines—yet continued with the violent plan.
History of Violence and Continued Threats From Jail
According to prosecutors, Smith also had a history of domestic violence, and the victim reported that he had lied about his age during their relationship. Even after being jailed, Smith continued to harass and threaten the victim, increasing the severity of his sentence.
U.S. Attorney Steven Weinhoeft said the case shocked even seasoned investigators:
“It is not easy to shock law enforcement officials… but then someone like Kevin Smith comes along.”
He added:
“This vile crime terrorized the victim and threatened the life of her unborn child.”
Federal Sentence and Supervised Release
Smith was ultimately sentenced to roughly 15½ years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Officials say the punishment reflects the severity of using a firearm, committing interstate kidnapping, and continuing retaliatory behavior from jail.
The Broader Risks of Coercive Control
Domestic violence experts note that coercive control—using threats, intimidation, and force to control a partner’s reproductive choices—is an escalating concern nationwide. Cases involving transportation across state lines, weapons, and attempts to force medical decisions underscore significant risks for victims.
Signs of coercive control can include:
- Threats involving pregnancy, children, or future family decisions
- Isolation during work hours, commuting, or medical visits
- Monitoring or restricting communication
- Escalation from verbal abuse to threats with weapons
Incidents like this highlight the importance of rapid reporting when victims signal they are in danger, as the victim’s text messages played a central role in saving her life.
Closing Thoughts
This case reflects the devastating impact of coercive violence and the critical need for swift intervention when a victim signals distress. Authorities credit the victim’s quick action and her family’s fast response with preventing further harm.
Share your experiences in the comments below.
