Boy in Chains: The Tragic Story of John Bushore

John Bushore was born on March 15, 1987, in Daytona Beach, Florida. His mother, Anne Marie Bushore, was a single mother who worked as a waitress. John's father, John Sr., was not involved in his life.

Boy in Chains

by John Bushore

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	82 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	16 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In 1994, Anne Marie met Michael Riley, a construction worker. They began dating, and soon after, Michael moved into Anne Marie's home. John was initially excited to have a stepfather, but Michael soon began to abuse him.

Michael would beat John with a belt, a broom, or anything else he could get his hands on. He would also lock John in a closet or in the basement for hours at a time. John was forced to sleep on the floor and was not allowed to use the bathroom.

In 1996, Michael took things a step further. He chained John to a bed in the basement. John was only 9 years old.

For the next two years, John was held captive in the basement. He was chained to the bed for most of the day, and was only allowed out to use the bathroom or to eat. John was fed scraps of food and was not allowed to bathe. He was also not allowed to see his mother.

In 1998, John's mother finally found out about the abuse. She called the police, and Michael was arrested. John was taken to the hospital, where he was treated for malnutrition and other injuries.

Michael Riley was convicted of aggravated child abuse and was sentenced to life in prison. John's mother was also charged with child neglect, but she was later acquitted.

John Bushore is now a young man. He has been through a lot of therapy and counseling, and he is slowly rebuilding his life. He is still haunted by the memories of his abuse, but he is determined to move on and to make a difference in the world.

John's story is a reminder of the horrors that children can endure. It is also a reminder of the importance of speaking out about abuse and of seeking help.

If you or someone you know is being abused, please reach out for help. You are not alone.

Resources

• National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-Child
• Childhelp USA: 1-800-422-4453
• The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE

Boy in Chains

by John Bushore

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	82 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	16 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE