Dardenne was kidnapped by Dutroux on 28 May 1996, while riding her bicycle to school. Although just twelve years old, Dardenne fought back, pelting Dutroux with questions and demands. He convinced Dardenne that he was her only ally and that her parents had failed to produce the ransom that would save her from fictitious men who wanted to kill her. During her imprisonment in the basement of Dutroux's house, Dutroux allowed Dardenne to write emotional letters to her friends and family, which he never sent despite promises that he would do so. When, after many weeks, she said she wanted one of her friends to visit her, he kidnapped 14-year-old Laetitia Delhez, saying, "Look what I've done for you."