Three Cleveland, Ohio girls, Amanda Berry, Georgina "Gina" DeJesus, and Michelle Knight, who were missing for almost a decade, were finally found after one was able to signal for help. The abductions occurred when they were between the ages of 14 and 21.
The trio was abducted by Ariel Castro, who kept them in a basement, bound by rope. They were subsequently raped and repeatedly impregnated. Due to severe beatings, many miscarriages occurred (Knight was beaten so badly she suffered hearing loss). Only one pregnancy was brought to full term, with Berry having given birth to a daughter, who is now six-years of age.
The trio was freed after a neighbor, Charles Ramsey and Angel Cordero, heard Berry’s cries for help. They kicked a hole in the bottom of the door and rescued Berry. Police were called and they searched the house and freed the other two abducted women, DeJesus and Knight.
Castro was arrested on May 6, 2013 and charged with kidnapping and rape, among other serious charges. His rap sheet has a number of violations from domestic violence to traffic infractions.
My heart goes out to them. Their ordeal was horrific. I hope in time they will be able to heal and find peace and happiness in life.
