What Happened to Joseph Scott Freeman After Kidnapping His Ex-Girlfriend?

In a harrowing tale of domestic abuse and resilience, the story of Karen Kummerer has been highlighted in the second season of Netflix’s docuseries “Worst Ex Ever.” The episode chronicles Kummerer’s relationship with Joseph Scott Freeman, who subjected her to a terrifying ordeal that ended in kidnapping and a multi-state chase, which drew in law enforcement, including the FBI.

In January 2006, Kummerer was trying to re-enter the dating scene following her divorce when she met Freeman at a local bar. Initially, their romance seemed to flourish, with Kummerer recalling a spark of connection. With Valentine’s Day approaching, Freeman showered her with gifts, swiftly embedding himself in her life. However, Kummerer noted that despite her intention to keep things casual, the relationship intensified to the point of Freeman moving into her home unexpectedly.

Once Freeman established residence, Kummerer’s life took a darker turn. Her niece, Brenna Randall, who was living with her at the time, observed significant changes in Kummerer under Freeman’s influence. Kummerer later described how the dynamics of their relationship shifted, with Freeman allegedly becoming verbally and physically abusive. As he suggested Randall move out, the violence escalated. Kummerer reported distressing incidents where Freeman would hold her down and scream at her for prolonged periods, a testimony heard during legal proceedings.

After eight tumultuous months, Kummerer made the decision to end their relationship. However, the conclusion of their romance did not deter Freeman; instead, it prompted a campaign of harassment. Kummerer recounts a day when he left as many as 27 voicemails on her phone, coupled with stalking behaviours that left her fearing for her safety. In a particularly alarming incident, Freeman confronted Kummerer with a knife after hiding in a nearby bush, compelling her to drive while brandishing the weapon.

Following this encounter, Kummerer sought legal protection and filed an emergency restraining order against Freeman. Yet, contrary to her hopes for safety, the situation swiftly deteriorated. Just weeks later, Freeman ambushed her when she stopped to check her car’s trunk, emerging from hiding and forcing her into the vehicle at knife-point. This shocking turn set off a terrifying journey as Freeman took her to his jeep, culminating in a week-long captivity across several states.

During her abduction, Kummerer employed ingenuity to seek help. After spending time in a hotel, she began leaving notes in public restrooms outlining her situation, hoping that a passerby would come to her aid. It was one of these notes that caught the attention of a restaurant employee, who quickly alerted the authorities. Additionally, Kummerer’s niece, Randall, became alerted to Kummerer’s distress through a coded phone call and sought to inform the police.

Eventually, law enforcement managed to track Freeman’s vehicle after a routine ATM withdrawal led them to Mississippi. The FBI and local police halted him on a highway, leading to his arrest and Kummerer’s rescue. The aftermath of this ordeal revealed a chilling array of items in Freeman’s vehicle, including a knife, rope, and other incriminating evidence.

Freeman faced a series of severe charges, including aggravated stalking and kidnapping with a weapon. In 2007, he was convicted on all counts and sentenced to life imprisonment. Tragically, he passed away in prison in 2025.

Karen Kummerer’s survival story is not only a powerful testament to resilience in the face of extreme adversity but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against domestic violence. Her experiences captured in “Worst Ex Ever” aim to shed light on the realities that many individuals face in abusive relationships, fostering a greater awareness of the signs to look out for and the importance of support for victims.