Haiti's 'descent into hell': Kidnappings, gangs ran rampant well before the spotlight on American missionaries

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Naïza Fadianie Saint Germain was steps from her home in Croix-des-Bouquets when she was kidnapped in August.

"During the days of my abduction, my eyes were blindfolded. I didn't shower. All of my humanity was on its knees," the 25-year-old told USA TODAY. "They give me food, but they treat me like cattle. I was scared. I saw death in the face."

Saint Germain, an actress and student, said she was verbally and physically assaulted before being released after five days. Since then, she has been living in isolation.

"I can't get out. I still feel in danger," she said.