Identity and background
Georgina "Gina" DeJesus is one of the three women formerly held captive in Cleveland, Ohio, alongside Amanda Berry and Michelle Knight. She was reported missing on April 2, 2004, at age 14, and was found alive on May 6, 2013. This profile outlines who she is, verified context about her experiences, and publicly reported details that are consistent across reliable sources.
Key biographical details
DeJesus was born on August 23, 1989, in Cleveland, Ohio. When she was reported missing in 2004, she was attending the eighth grade and described as a honor roll student. She gave birth to a daughter while in captivity in 2007. DeJesus and Berry escaped together with Berry’s child on the evening of May 6, 2013, helped by Berry’s neighbor, Charles Ramsey. Following their rescue, DeJesus, Berry, and Knight were released from the hospital and began rebuilding their lives with support services.
Disappearance timeline
On April 2, 2004, DeJesus failed to return home after visiting a pay phone near her home. She was last seen walking with a man and a woman. The case remained open for nearly nine years, receiving intermittent media attention. On May 6, 2013, Berry escaped and called 911, leading to the discovery of DeJesus and Knight in a home at 2207 Seymour Avenue.
Life after rescue
In the initial period after the rescue, DeJesus received medical care, counseling, and ongoing support to address the trauma of captivity. She has maintained a low public profile, limiting interviews to protect her privacy and that of her daughter. Reliable reports indicate she values family, education, and a quiet life.
Verified detail summary
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Georgina DeJesus, commonly called Gina | Law enforcement and news reports |
| Date of birth | August 23, 1989 | Court and public records |
| Age at disappearance | 14 years old | Missing persons records |
| Date found | May 6, 2013 | Law enforcement announcements |
| Location of captivity | 2207 Seymour Avenue, Cleveland, OH | Official statements |
| Child during captivity | Gave birth to a daughter in 2007 | Custody and public records |
Context and relationships
DeJesus, Amanda Berry, and Michelle Knight formed the three captive individuals in the Cleveland home. Berry had a prior relationship with DeJesus’s family and was the first to escape. The women were rescued together, and their joint recovery underscored the importance of community vigilance. The case led to significant discussions on missing persons protocols and victim services.
Public discourse and safety insights
Coverage of DeJesus’s case has emphasized long term missing persons investigations and the impact of community awareness. Experts note that her story highlights the need for thorough follow-up on runaway and missing youth cases. Ongoing public interest reflects broader concerns about child safety, timely reporting, and support systems for survivors and families.
Privacy and respectful coverage
Respect for DeJesus’s privacy and that of her family is widely observed in reputable reporting. Many outlets and advocates encourage focusing on survivor-centered narratives and the progress in missing persons responses rather than sensational details. This approach supports long term healing and informs constructive public understanding.
Key takeaways
- Georgina "Gina" DeJesus is a survivor of long term captivity in Cleveland, rescued in 2013 at age 23.
- She was reported missing in 2004 at age 14 and gave birth to a daughter while captive.
- Her case, together with Amanda Berry and Michelle Knight, prompted discussion on missing persons practices and victim services.
- She has maintained privacy since the rescue, with reliable reports indicating a focus on family and stability.
- Verified details, including name, dates, and key events, are supported by court, law enforcement, and public records.