An Abducted Child Speaks Out

In January 2007, the case of Shawn Hornbeck and Ben Ownby—made headlines around the world. In what is referred to as the miracle in Missouri, both boys were found alive in the St. Louis-area home of alleged kidnapper Michael Devlin. Ben had been gone for four days; Shawn had been away from his home for more than four years.

Devlin has pleaded not guilty to kidnapping charges filed in connection with Shawn and Ben. He has yet to enter a plea to the remaining 71 charges against him, including 69 counts of forcible sodomy.

Since the boys were rescued, there has been debate and speculation in the press about why Shawn and Ben didn't escape when they had a chance. These questions angered many, including Todd—a man who suffered a similar fate in 1974.