Natalee was 18. That is an adult. You cannot blame the chaperones for the actions of an adult.
Eighteen (18)...an Adult it does NOT one make. (Did I say that right?) ... She may have been 18 but an "Adult?"...now that's almost laughable. Being 18 today is nothing like what being 18 was 40-50+ years ago. She's basically a "kid." She may be an adult in the eyes of the law, but mentally, emotionally, mature-wise...she most likely is/was a very naive girl. As for the chaperones...the way I understand it, they were just "along" for the trip...to be available in case they were "needed." The impression I've gotten is that the teens were for the most part, on their own. Most young people are so naive...I was no different at that age (18-22 or so back in the 70's)...thinking I could come-n-go and do as I pleased, doing things that put me at risk. When I look back on those years, all I can do is thank God that nothing really bad ever happened to me.
I'm so sorry for what's happened to this young lady. Surprised? No. Human nature being what it is--we live in such an evil world. If those three young guys are responsible for her demise, I would venture to say that when they got up that morning, even they had no idea whatsoever of what they were capable of doing within those proceeding 24 hours...assuming they are responsible, of course.
Should an 18 year old female teenager be able to go out, have some fun, then call it a day? Well, sure...why not?! (...so they are led to believe)... After all, the "guys" do it, don't they? But that's just not reality. What a pity for this young girl. I don't care who they are, ALL young women, from teenagers on up, should ALWAYS be on their guard...guarding their hearts, their emotions, their desires...so that one day they won't have to look back with deep regret over unwise decisions/bad choices.
(By the way, has anyone taken notice of the size of these two--her and the Dutch fella. I've seen where she is 5'3", 103 lbs. He's 6'5", 190+ lbs. She wouldn't have stood a chance getting away from him, not matter how much she kicked and clawed.
Natalee was 17.