Locked Up At 14: The Harrowing Story Of A Prison Orphan

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  • Опубліковано 21 лис 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,8 тис.

  • @luluyarns
    @luluyarns 2 місяці тому +398

    Kate. Massive kudos to you for holding Justin up when he was below the surface. You changed his world and I hope that you continue to do so for others.

    • @amandamayhue9057
      @amandamayhue9057 2 місяці тому +29

      They need to give Kate a raise. Whatever she's making, she deserves more.

    • @A-ID-A-M
      @A-ID-A-M 24 дні тому +13

      You can tell she feels like a mom or a big sister to him but has to remain professional and keep a clear boundary up. But some of her feelings cannot be hidden. Her love for him is so apparent. I can tell she has cried countless times worrying about him and his future and being excited for it at the same time. I am so glad people like her are working to help children in need.

  • @bettyheerema3028
    @bettyheerema3028 2 місяці тому +72

    Thank you Kate for loving this abandoned little boy and bringing attention to his plight.

  • @ArtilleryAmy
    @ArtilleryAmy 2 місяці тому +794

    Justin’s parents don’t deserve him….he’s got a home in hearts all round the world….I wish you all the love and happiness you deserve Justin x

    • @candisfirchau3810
      @candisfirchau3810 2 місяці тому +9

      He needs some servuces including behavior, he coukd do well

    • @booognish
      @booognish 2 місяці тому +11

      Just don’t leave him alone around your kids

    • @ryankelly5426
      @ryankelly5426 2 місяці тому +10

      ​@booognish honestly that really should be the case with anyone of his mental capacity. Their ability to understand is quite limited. Leaving your kids alone with anyone like that would be a parental mistake.
      His actions that got him there weren't the actions of someone with motive to do that specific act.

    • @ryankelly5426
      @ryankelly5426 2 місяці тому +12

      Also now that I've finished the video, they stated the whole thing was made up in the first place. So while safer, I still wouldn't just based on the understanding of their capacity.
      I have a cousin that's roughly on a similar level as this kind seeming young man. He's got a good decade on him in age though, I'm just glad his grandma loves him and cares for him, though we worry about what happens when she passes, but honestly he's in his 40s now, and has plenty of other folks that know and care about him.

    • @katerinataylor7183
      @katerinataylor7183 2 місяці тому +27

      ​@@booognishif you watched to the end, you'd have read that he never did anything to the kids, the adults made that accusation up so they could dump him in the juvenile justice system and not have to look after him...

  • @elainetompkins1189
    @elainetompkins1189 2 місяці тому +117

    Mike Dempsey, you are a hero and an angel!! What an amazing soul you are!! Thank you to everyone who took Justin under their wing and showed him love, patience, and kindness and who fought for him! You are all such very special people!! I cried through this whole video! I used to work with kids with special needs in the public school system. I'm retired now. What a special young man Justin is! I hope he will always have someone amazing to look after him and show him love! His mother and father don't deserve him! He's so much better off without them!! Justin has stolen my heart and the hearts of many!!

  • @LisaSpatafore
    @LisaSpatafore 2 місяці тому +637

    The fact that he still wants to go home and see his mom after her not speaking or seeing him for 6 years tore me apart.

    • @pechelinguesmartinez5102
      @pechelinguesmartinez5102 2 місяці тому +30

      Same, he's still waiting for her.

    • @fatimahbakare7869
      @fatimahbakare7869 2 місяці тому +40

      A child is a child. Every child deserves to be loved, a loving home and a mother's warm arms to go to. I am sure he longed for that despite his parents'attitude towards him.

    • @Lynette-sv3ti
      @Lynette-sv3ti Місяць тому +23

      A child's love for their parents, never ceases to amaze me.

    • @davidgray1515
      @davidgray1515 Місяць тому

      His IQ is lower than a dog He has no idea what he is saying.

    • @tikimillie
      @tikimillie Місяць тому +15

      @@Lynette-sv3tia child would literally rather be destroyed by their parents than be abandoned. Its very sad buy its survival instinct.

  • @carolwelch5834
    @carolwelch5834 2 місяці тому +223

    I’m crying. I was one of those kids too at 11 years old in Baltimore city Md. God Bless

    • @Ruey-pv7jx
      @Ruey-pv7jx 2 місяці тому +17

      God Blesses you Carol as a strong beautiful Soul💛.

    • @carolwelch5834
      @carolwelch5834 2 місяці тому +11

      @@Ruey-pv7jx peace and love.. Always be kind

    • @kernelcorn7716
      @kernelcorn7716 2 місяці тому

      ​@@carolwelch5834I hope you're doing well Carol. I'm glad this video could find you. Continue to become the person you wish to find in the world.

    • @somberspacegaming
      @somberspacegaming 2 місяці тому +4

      Peace bruh

    • @banterj
      @banterj Місяць тому +1

      Oh this broke me up

  • @emmasgrandma1
    @emmasgrandma1 2 місяці тому +759

    This video has me crying my eyes out for Justin. No child should have to go through what he went through.

    • @EthanLomas
      @EthanLomas 2 місяці тому +16

      Crying? Don’t cry, be angry. Take action! These kids need help

    • @tisketisja5528
      @tisketisja5528 2 місяці тому +15

      @@EthanLomas What action have you taken?

    • @emmasgrandma1
      @emmasgrandma1 2 місяці тому +6

      @@EthanLomasI am in Canada
      We have group homes here

    • @EthanLomas
      @EthanLomas 2 місяці тому

      @@tisketisja5528 I have donated $1000 to the prison social fund!

    • @iTsEfFiNsTePhh
      @iTsEfFiNsTePhh 2 місяці тому

      @@emmasgrandma1The heartbreaking thing is while they have groups and programs (here in America too) that help kids more often then not they end up being just as bad if not worse then the situation they came from 😕 And that's even IF they help those kids in the first place.
      I know this first hand because I grew up in an abusive home and I lost count how many times CPS (child protective services) and the cops were called yet nothing was ever done in fact all of those times the agents didn't even look in my general direction let alone talk to and see me (in some cases abuse/neglect was going on right in front of them yet they still did nothing) they fell for my mom's manipulative BS hook line and sinker and/or just didn't care and tbh that's why at a certain point I stopped caring about being "saved" and realized I could only rely on and help myself because I had been let down so many times by the adults in my life and even more importantly the adults in my life who were supposed to protect and love me. Really the only saving grace looking back at it was my teachers who reported it because they noticed the bruises and marks on my body and how I was acting at the very least they cared about me.
      But not all kids are/were as lucky as I was and either ended up being killed by their abuser or wound up in the system where they were killed or abused even more. On paper these programs are good but the execution is horrible so having them doesn't automatically mean they're running smoothly and that all kids in it are being treated right 😕

  • @David-lr4if
    @David-lr4if 2 місяці тому +82

    I'm not crying, you are..... Seriously, coming from the father of an autistic 14yr old son this truly breaks my heart!

  • @samanthafairweather9186
    @samanthafairweather9186 2 місяці тому +567

    I was shocked when it was said that the "crime" Justin was originally sentenced for never even happened! I cannot believe that people would make up such a horrific lie, just so they don't have to take responsibility for their own child. Who does such a cruel thing to their child?
    I'm so happy that Justin has such a loving dad in Mel. It goes to show that family can be anyone - as long as there is love . Bloody doesn't even come into it.
    I wish Justin nothing but the best! 💖😘🇭🇲

    • @serendipidus8482
      @serendipidus8482 2 місяці тому +11

      Hes in 24 hour one to one care. You cant get better than that.

    • @MsMesem
      @MsMesem 2 місяці тому +25

      He has found a father who loves him and two brothers! Heck, can't get much better than that.

    • @parkerposey8155
      @parkerposey8155 2 місяці тому +63

      It is not ok to take a parents word over a child's. Both sides should be deeply scrutinized.
      My mother did it to me. She didn't want me and she found out my dad was coming to get me from out of state. The day I got out of school for Christmas break, I arrived home to CPS waiting for me with my suitcase already packed. I was 11 about to turn 12 New Years. I wasn't allowed to have contact with anyone outside of the foster home or CPS for about 9 months. As a matter of fact, no one knew where I was. How they found out I was in foster care was because my dad went to the authorities. He was questioned for hours about sexually abusing me and giving me alcohol and drugs. Totally baseless accusations. We were allowed a two hour supervised visit in a room at a CPS office. My mother didn't want my dad to have me either, a vindictive narcissist. I spent five years in a foster home. It was court ordered I was not to have contact with my dad until I turned 18. My family let me talk to him any chance there was. They knew who the real abuser was.
      It took that long for my mother's sister to be able to bring me home to my family. Unfortunately, the damage was done. Trust gone. I learned I could only depend on myself and my ability to have meaningful relationships hindered.

    • @_Laura_Marie
      @_Laura_Marie 2 місяці тому +19

      ​@@parkerposey8155I am so sorry for everything that you went through. I hope that your foster parents were good people and that you were able to have a good childhood (as good as you could have had). I hope that you and your dad can make up for lost time as soon as you turn 18.
      Every child deserves to have good parents. Unfortunately, not every parent deserves to have children.
      My heart truly goes out to you ❤

    • @sarahm.1632
      @sarahm.1632 2 місяці тому +14

      ​@@parkerposey8155 I believe this happens more often than most people realize, the part where women use their children as pawns to hurt the child's father, because he doesn't want her anymore. This is such a heart wrenching situation and in your case especially, because you lost out on 5 years that you could've had a loving dad. I'm so sorry this happened to you and I hope you're able to rise from those ashes and build a relationship eventually with your dad that you'll gain trust with. I wish for you to heal and gain even more than you lost. ❤

  • @Dylan_Lanckman
    @Dylan_Lanckman 2 місяці тому +203

    He stopped cussing, no more nightmares, he got rid of the 'prison walk', found a home.... Too bad so many kids went before him that were forgotten or even landed up on death row. Justin's parents don't deserve him and it's heartbreaking to see him asking for them all the time. The faint light at the end of this long tunnel is that changes, albeit slowly, are happening.

  • @joshhastieYT
    @joshhastieYT 2 місяці тому +1111

    That prison superintendent is a shining light in the system.

    • @egroegartfart
      @egroegartfart 2 місяці тому +37

      Absolutely. Him and the lady that worked with him there. I would love to speak to and interview the prosecutor, judge and anyone else involved in the decision to send him to maximum juvenile prison. What an injustice. All because he wanted more pork chops. Sjre, itbwas absolutely wrong to do what he dis. But with his mwntal capacity i rhink it should be obvious he didnt have the ability to know the gravity of doing what he did. Thats the differwnce between him and a kid with an average mental ability who shouls have been sent to prison. But he should not have been. But luckily theres been people along the way that recognized this and have tried to do better for him. The people that are responsible for him being imprisoned need to have further education.

    • @egroegartfart
      @egroegartfart 2 місяці тому +14

      Wow, he wven looks like his adoptive father. And what an amazing guy that guy is. He fewls lucky and said that his life is complete with juatin in it. So cool.

    • @joshhastieYT
      @joshhastieYT 2 місяці тому +27

      @@egroegartfart Yes, even worse since at the end of the program they said that those accusations were made up by his family because they did not want to raise him any longer.

    • @egroegartfart
      @egroegartfart 2 місяці тому +6

      @@joshhastieYT thats terrible.

    • @jerrypalmer3534
      @jerrypalmer3534 2 місяці тому +5

      @@egroegartfart I don't think its education..the prisons are owned by corporations and many time the people that confine them , get kickbacks....I don't know if this is the case here, but how could anybody know?

  • @OrnamentalPlague
    @OrnamentalPlague 2 місяці тому +598

    Intentionally forgetting cases just so you can sleep at night....
    Is EXACTLY why our system is broken.

    • @agebaann
      @agebaann 2 місяці тому +27

      Right? Don't be a judge, you clearly can't handle it. It's that simple.

    • @HuffYenkem
      @HuffYenkem Місяць тому +41

      Not to mention he was a judge for almost 2 decades... How many other kids did he send to a place to ruin their lives and just not bat another eye, even though he could of been very clearly wrong.

    • @ctwalston1565
      @ctwalston1565 Місяць тому +3

      As stated by several of the administrators, the cost is unsustainable! Follow the money!

    • @limpdklittle
      @limpdklittle Місяць тому +1

      @@ctwalston1565 You would think by now being 2024 "Follow the money" would be common sense.

    • @michaelragusa5138
      @michaelragusa5138 Місяць тому

      What is not clear to me is why Justin is in prison? What did he do?

  • @thatGUYbehindthemask
    @thatGUYbehindthemask 2 місяці тому +330

    the fact he he learned to read and read his 18th birthday card was awesome
    he even looks like his adopted dad. i was adopted too. people always said i looked so much like my parents without knowing. haha

    • @Meyou1n1
      @Meyou1n1 Місяць тому +7

      My son looks just like his adopted father!!! People didn’t know I had another child and they ask me if I’m the stepmom!!!

    • @ssmith2526
      @ssmith2526 Місяць тому +1

      Ugh, I’m adopted and look nothing like my parents (different races). Who cares if the adopted child looks like their non-biological children. Does looking similar make the bond closer or make them more like “real” relatives? No. It’s sad that is the attribute you focused on most and ascribed some value to what is essentially a fluke.

    • @JohannaBarnard-sl4jb
      @JohannaBarnard-sl4jb 23 дні тому

      Thats too funny, same goes for my nephew. He even looks like his siblings !

    • @matthewfiedler4739
      @matthewfiedler4739 23 дні тому +2

      @@ssmith2526I’m adopted too shut up lmao why are you so mad they were just pointing out he looked like him

    • @ssmith2526
      @ssmith2526 23 дні тому

      @@matthewfiedler4739 btw shut up back at ya, dbag

  • @ShawnS4ntiago
    @ShawnS4ntiago 2 місяці тому +79

    As someone in the md dss system specifically bmore city, they failed me so bad, i love to see that someone like me is getting the support they need and deserve. Im not bout to write a sob story, im just proud that there are people who care.

    • @FayeVert
      @FayeVert Місяць тому +6

      You don't have to tell your story here, but you should tell your story to the people in power so they'll do something to help other kids.

    • @M_SC
      @M_SC 25 днів тому

      Well I believe you and I’m sorry all of the things happened to you. You deserved better

  • @MiPointIs
    @MiPointIs 2 місяці тому +240

    It’s great to see Justin become more confident and able to live his best life thanks to all the wonderful people who cared and realised he deserved the chance to reboot his life.

  • @liseklerekoper2441
    @liseklerekoper2441 2 місяці тому +27

    This video is proof positive that what children need most is unconditional love, closely followed w/ a sense of belonging & safety. Justin just blossomed at the second facility & started to develop a sense of self & self esteem.
    The director of the juvenile detention facility is an amazing human being for being willing to get Justin the type of setting that he needed and not keep making him a throw away kid. Given the enormous cost, I’m sure that was a very difficult decision for him to make and it shows his integrity & compassion. That’s not seen very often in these types of facilities, for juveniles or adults.
    Justin now has a chance for a real life & w/ the willingness of Mel to adopt him, Justin will realize unconditional love, as it’s never too late.
    Fantastic program …thank you Only Human!!!🌟

  • @MiPointIs
    @MiPointIs 2 місяці тому +1369

    50 years ago in UK a cleaner was extremely nervous around women, eventually once he felt comfortable speaking to me he told me that his mother had put him into a high security mental health institution telling authorities that she couldn’t cope with him. He was in his early 40s when the health authorities reviewed patients in long term care and released him. I always felt dirty that he had missed out on the best years of his life,

    • @nancysantamarialatica1141
      @nancysantamarialatica1141 2 місяці тому +48

      Wow what a story.

    • @letitiakearney2423
      @letitiakearney2423 2 місяці тому +59

      I think dirty is a mistake you probably meant sorry or something more emphatic towards him.

    • @AlexGamingConsole
      @AlexGamingConsole 2 місяці тому +10

      He got rid of bodies and cleaned up crime scenes? Thats what a cleaner is

    • @Joy-TheLazyCatLady2
      @Joy-TheLazyCatLady2 2 місяці тому +6

      💔💔💔

    • @naelyneurkopfen9741
      @naelyneurkopfen9741 2 місяці тому

      ​@@letitiakearney2423No. It's a filthy, dirty thing that was done to him from start to finish! You don't get to dictate how others speak!
      You obviously are either very arrogant, or very ignorant of the English language. Either way, stay in your lane!

  • @winnepeterson6570
    @winnepeterson6570 Місяць тому +42

    Thank you to all the loving adults who helped Justin. Thank you for sharing this video. 🙂

  • @jadelynn1703
    @jadelynn1703 2 місяці тому +303

    at the 30 min mark of this video, the amount of positive change Justin has made is actually so amazing. He's talking more, he looks like he's more aware, just wow.

    • @MsMesem
      @MsMesem 2 місяці тому +26

      IQ of 42?! I really don't think it is that low. He responds well to his environment and those around him. He works stuff out on his own.

    • @Marie.b
      @Marie.b 2 місяці тому +5

      Thanks. I'm skipping to that because I can handle this anymore.

    • @danikafarnsworth5590
      @danikafarnsworth5590 2 місяці тому +22

      Things take a positive turn around the 18 min mark when he moves to Damar. He seems excited, fearless and he pretty much stops cussing. 😊

    • @BriAnderson-b8h
      @BriAnderson-b8h 2 місяці тому

      Soo you think he's faking retardation . Very Leonardo DiCaprio of him

    • @Jamiesantos1
      @Jamiesantos1 2 місяці тому

      Under 70 is clinical mental retardation. ​@@MsMesem

  • @ksair6399
    @ksair6399 2 місяці тому +31

    This video is full of heroes.
    It’s easy to forget and feel removed from those with chaotic, interrupted lives.
    It’s beautiful what these people did for Justin. I wish all kids had such strong advocates.

  • @jamieennen964
    @jamieennen964 2 місяці тому +847

    The fact they're saying Justin never committed the molestation offense he was accused of, that they just said that so they didn't have to take care of him has me so unbelievably mad! They could have called the state to take him since his mom n dad were MIA! Instead they lied and had him sent to prison at 10yrs old. Unbelievable! They should have charged brought up against them and Justin's adopted dad should sue the court for not appointing him an attorney when he has an IQ of 42 and has no idea how the court system works so he could have been properly represented!!! They SHOULD BE AND NEED TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE! So it doesn't happen to another innocent child!

    • @AlexGamingConsole
      @AlexGamingConsole 2 місяці тому +23

      You're not really that mad. You're gonna instantly get over it and never think about it again. So you're not that mad at all

    • @AlexGamingConsole
      @AlexGamingConsole 2 місяці тому +25

      When and where in the video did they say he didn't do it? I heard them say he most likely didn't understand what he was doing. That still means he did it. I missed that part.

    • @jamieennen964
      @jamieennen964 2 місяці тому +102

      @@AlexGamingConsole first of all you dk me. So dont say oh you forget about it and all that bs. To answer ur second question..... end of the video. Read the words on the screen...

    • @abadazadytgaming7200
      @abadazadytgaming7200 2 місяці тому

      ​@@AlexGamingConsoledo you feel dumb yet?

    • @Mary-uv8kt
      @Mary-uv8kt 2 місяці тому +34

      I thought this initially too!
      Those sons of b’s should be charged.
      But considering the gift they (inadvertently as it may be) bestowed on him by doing so, perhaps it wasn’t such a bad lie in hindsight.
      He now has a real family🥰🥰🥰

  • @christinaortiz7567
    @christinaortiz7567 19 днів тому +6

    I haven’t even finished watching this. I can’t stop crying. I can’t imagine abandoning my child no matter the circumstances.

  • @avajoyporter9064
    @avajoyporter9064 2 місяці тому +125

    Love this story. So glad he finally has a Dad who loves him and, that Justine loves. So happy for him.

  • @samiecarr1885
    @samiecarr1885 Місяць тому +6

    The ending...got me. Like no other doccumentary ever has. From happy tears, to anger, to a dagger to the heart and a kick to the stomach. To absolute admiration, pride in humanity and happiness all over again..❤❤❤

  • @roadhousepress
    @roadhousepress 2 місяці тому +177

    I am so glad he got people who care about him to help him.

    • @ismailkin4469
      @ismailkin4469 2 місяці тому +2

      Yeah, his adopting dad is so great, and they look alike!

  • @NanciBK
    @NanciBK 20 днів тому +6

    This documentary is really well done. The videography and narration are excellent, and the story progresses in a really informative and engaging way. Justin's story is both heartbreaking and infuriating. The changes to the system that have happened are really hopeful.
    But the last 5 minutes of this absolutely wrecked me.
    😭🥰

    • @leeannhoffman3556
      @leeannhoffman3556 15 днів тому

      So glad he got his family now and hope he gets to see the Pacific ocean.❤

  • @MargaretaStLouis-bo5hr
    @MargaretaStLouis-bo5hr 2 місяці тому +423

    All Justin ever needed and deserved was pure unadulterated unconditional love. That is all anyone needs.

    • @MA-mh1vs
      @MA-mh1vs 2 місяці тому +19

      NO, he needs far more than love. He requires 24/7 supervision.

    • @TheAnbyrley
      @TheAnbyrley 2 місяці тому +3

      That's what Christ offers. It can transform your life.

    • @highlandsoutdoors2041
      @highlandsoutdoors2041 2 місяці тому +8

      @@MA-mh1vs He is a Kid "WHAT" kid does not need 24/7 Supervision.

    • @MA-mh1vs
      @MA-mh1vs 2 місяці тому

      @@highlandsoutdoors2041 Normal 14yr olds don't need literal 24/7 supervision. That is a level of care far beyond typical childcare.
      That is like a family I know with autistic children who have automatic locks on the exterior doors so their teen kids can't wander outside and locks on the bathroom so they don't flood the house along with a whole host of other things no parent would have to do with a teen child.

    • @highlandsoutdoors2041
      @highlandsoutdoors2041 2 місяці тому +1

      @MA-mh1vs that is not the kids fault that is the parents fault they didn't teach their kids right and what even is normal 🙄

  • @Dj-zz
    @Dj-zz Місяць тому +4

    I’m 78 yrs. old, a dad, grandpa & great grandpa. I’ve been crying like a little baby. Thank goodness for the individuals who cared, intervened & mentored Justin along the way. Thank goodness for those who took the additional steps in seeing through changes to the broken system. To Justin’s Parents..You missed out. Justin is an incredible young man.

  • @marcikrause3462
    @marcikrause3462 2 місяці тому +529

    How the HECK can they allow ANY juvenile to go to court without a lawyer???? They need to change that law!!!!
    Ok, update: they have changed the law.

    • @jordanlanigan6980
      @jordanlanigan6980 2 місяці тому +25

      This comment made me lol 😂

    • @kirstenornelas881
      @kirstenornelas881 2 місяці тому +17

      In my state EVERY minor is given an attorney (guardian at litem which is the child’s lawyer only. This is sickening he was tossed in an environment he didn’t belong and worse didn’t understand.

    • @scurvofpcp
      @scurvofpcp 2 місяці тому +23

      In America children do not have rights, I mean yeah they should, but in practice... not so much.

    • @stellamcqueen4809
      @stellamcqueen4809 2 місяці тому +29

      Any minor that the police want to interview due to suspicion of having committed a crime should be automatically given a lawyer. They are way too vulnerable without a knowledgeable adult present and looking out for them.

    • @Lolchumpz
      @Lolchumpz 2 місяці тому +5

      I lived in Indiana and had gotten in trouble as a child had no legal rep either that was in 02

  • @beccal.5369
    @beccal.5369 Місяць тому +6

    What an amazing bunch of adults... bless them all for helping Justin.
    My heart breaks for all the other "Justins" that fall through the cracks and are abandoned.

  • @redmare1746
    @redmare1746 2 місяці тому +50

    I'm so happy people went the extra mile to help Justin. I hope he has a fulfilling, happy life.

  • @lulasnannajodie7723
    @lulasnannajodie7723 2 місяці тому +15

    As a retired woker at a uk childrens group home i am somewhat de sensitised and hardened (you have to be) but i cried a few times at this documentary, happy tears in the end. Justin looks like mel, like they were destined to be father and son. Earth angels are real. I wish them both a long happy wonderful life.

  • @SandraStanley-ih5qt
    @SandraStanley-ih5qt 2 місяці тому +93

    Thank you to every single person that made this man's life count, and for making the changes for those children following him. Emotions were felt and tears she'd. But what a happy ending x

  • @taylorboyd8244
    @taylorboyd8244 2 місяці тому +7

    This story broke my soul and made me proud of the people involved trying to help this man succeed. I hope he’s doing well!

  • @krabbcake8371
    @krabbcake8371 2 місяці тому +171

    That judge that handled Justin's case should not have been a judge at all. How many other kid's lives were ruined over his 18 years presiding as a judge?

  • @Maisdetimenosdemim
    @Maisdetimenosdemim 21 день тому +4

    Wow what a great documentary! The end was the best part of it! So thankful that are still so many good people in this world. 🙏🏼

  • @crazycoyote9732
    @crazycoyote9732 2 місяці тому +82

    Thank God for Cathy,Mike and Fred for helping this young man reach his full potential,as well as loving him along this journey!! Thankyou for this great outcomes story,we need more of these in our world! Take care and God Bless!

    • @serenitypalmer490
      @serenitypalmer490 2 місяці тому +10

      And Mel, his adopted dad.

    • @crazycoyote9732
      @crazycoyote9732 2 місяці тому +2

      @@serenitypalmer490 absolutely,didn't read that til after I commented!!

  • @heidimisfeldt5685
    @heidimisfeldt5685 2 місяці тому +8

    Please provide us with an update. Justin does matter.
    He is important. He is precious. I hope he is always loved.
    My heart goes out to him. 😊❤

  • @iambeiam
    @iambeiam 2 місяці тому +51

    Justin’s story break my heart. Brought tears to my eyes. Bless everyone who didn’t give up on him. I wish Justin a better future

  • @UniversitySecurity
    @UniversitySecurity 2 місяці тому +23

    39 is typically the marker for severe metal disability. 40 Is considered moderate but 40 is obviously borderline between Severe and Moderate....He will need care the rest of his life.

  • @ALICE-m8f
    @ALICE-m8f 2 місяці тому +63

    A child that has never been loved or known happiness or joy,and imprisoned for being mentally disabled.
    Sending him love and hope for the future me and my dog send him hugs.❤

    • @kungfreddie
      @kungfreddie 2 місяці тому +2

      He looked pretty happy in prison tbh... ppl adapt very easily.. I was to prison for 3 yrs.. those were 3 of the happiest yrs of my life!

    • @kellydoscope_eyes
      @kellydoscope_eyes 25 днів тому

      @@kungfreddieYou think he looked happy being locked in a room when they had to, with nothing inside? That's not fair. That was a horrible environment for him.
      Also they did their best to take care of him since clearly he wasn't supposed to be there. Have some compassion.

    • @alfredfreedomjones5105
      @alfredfreedomjones5105 24 дні тому

      @@kungfreddie you must’ve had a really difficult life if prison was the happiest years of your life …

  • @RobinTru
    @RobinTru 2 місяці тому +6

    wow...what a sweet person. I'm so glad Justin is with Mel. Bless you all for taking care of Justin. And Justin, I wish all your prayers are answered and your life with your Dad has many adventures. Maybe even a trip to the ocean!

  • @kaykepop4084
    @kaykepop4084 2 місяці тому +46

    He seems like such a sweet heart❤. I pray he's doing well and has genuinely loving people in his life to support and care for him always. 🙌🏽

  • @crystalgaudette5665
    @crystalgaudette5665 2 місяці тому +8

    When he said the one thing he would tell his mom “I want to go home” absolutely broke me. No child should have to miss home for any amount of time. Especially for as long as he went without a home.

  • @gregl8531
    @gregl8531 2 місяці тому +161

    The parents should be arrested for child neglect and falsifying an arrest and putting this child in prison . Lets see how they like it

    • @louisebb4183
      @louisebb4183 2 місяці тому +13

      I totally agree 100% How can anyone not to say a parent do something like this to a child that hey created! Jail 100% and pay support.

    • @micheleh5269
      @micheleh5269 2 місяці тому +7

      God help us. This is unconscionable. Yet such a wonderful young man he has become

    • @shari9721
      @shari9721 Місяць тому +3

      It wasnt his parents that made the false report , it was the people he was living with at the time , I forget if they said it was relatives or a friend of his Mother's .

    • @SoaringStephanie
      @SoaringStephanie Місяць тому +5

      Dad's dead, they said suicide, mom can't be found.

    • @gregl8531
      @gregl8531 Місяць тому +1

      @@shari9721 they said it was his parents who did it.

  • @BonesBrigader
    @BonesBrigader 2 місяці тому +36

    People can be monsters. What everyone did for him has me more emotional than i think i can handle.. Thank you so much. I just wish more kids can get the love and attention that was shown to Justin. Cool kicks dude

  • @maevelee4023
    @maevelee4023 2 місяці тому +4

    I saw justins original story a while back and was so happy to see this video! so glad he is in a happy safe home and thriving. I thought about him often and this brought so much closure. thank you

  • @shellyann8818
    @shellyann8818 2 місяці тому +38

    Justin's back story is absolutely heartbreaking (prior to DAMAR). No child, no matter what, should have a life like he had. However, the life he has now with love, support, & family is truly heartwarming. Thank you to everyone who played an integral part in getting Justin to the life he has now. You are all Angels ❤💙

  • @Lexer584
    @Lexer584 2 місяці тому +8

    May God bless and protect Mel and Justin. Greetings from Germany.♥

  • @Alaska-Bush-Mom
    @Alaska-Bush-Mom 2 місяці тому +30

    14:50 I PRAY that the staff who Justin has bonded with, will stay in contact with him so he doesn’t feel abandoned again. Transition him into the next step of his life. For as long as he needs and deserves.

  • @TheUltimateBusinessMindset
    @TheUltimateBusinessMindset 23 дні тому +3

    Where family and the system failed him everyone else stepped up. So many heros that saved him. Im moved to tears! Im proud of the man Justin has become

  • @dinahconnell6947
    @dinahconnell6947 2 місяці тому +129

    It's so sad Justin was just thrown away by everybody my heart breaks for this little guy😢

    • @serendipidus8482
      @serendipidus8482 2 місяці тому +1

      He has 24 hour one to one care. That's the best he could get on the planet. Apart from an actual mother.

    • @sarahm.1632
      @sarahm.1632 2 місяці тому +5

      ​@@serendipidus8482stop with this nonsense. A 24 hour care giver is in NO way even remotely comparable to a normal childhood. You sound slow.

    • @serendipidus8482
      @serendipidus8482 2 місяці тому +1

      @sarahm.1632 he didnt have a normal childhood parenting situation. So he didnt have that option... one to one care is the best the state could provide for somone. Shouldn't have been in a prison but its still pretty amaxing that he got that.

    • @Kalani_Saiko
      @Kalani_Saiko 2 місяці тому

      @@serendipidus8482 A 24 hour care giver is not normal for a kid nor is it as replacement for an actual family.

    • @williambrinkmeier1772
      @williambrinkmeier1772 Місяць тому

      ​@sarahm.1632 great insult considering the situation your talking about lol

  • @NigelBarker-c5e
    @NigelBarker-c5e 22 дні тому +2

    Wow .this story really touched me. And the coverage over the years is so well documented.weld to this lovely lad pulling through and the support he had together him there and for finding a loving home.

  • @LeaveNoTrashBehind
    @LeaveNoTrashBehind 2 місяці тому +61

    I'm so glad that this story ended with a happy ending. Justin has transformed into a better version of himself, and he now has a family to love/care for him.

    • @banterj
      @banterj Місяць тому

      I can’t finish it….it is too much!you are stronger than me

  • @kayewilson8391
    @kayewilson8391 9 днів тому

    The world needs more Mikes and Katie’s and Fred’s. I wish nothing but the best for Justin and pray his life continues to get better and better.

  • @ginaanderson4606
    @ginaanderson4606 2 місяці тому +116

    Parent's seriously need to start being held accountable for the damage they do to their children! Justin and many other children should never have to go through that amount of pain and trauma. Prayers of strength and peace for Justin and all the other children trying to heal from being abandoned by their parents/ family. This broke my heart. How could you do that to your child/children!!!!

    • @MsMesem
      @MsMesem 2 місяці тому +4

      The abuse and neglect by his family cost the state dearly financially.

    • @Jenifer_G
      @Jenifer_G 2 місяці тому +4

      Some parents need to be taken to court for neglect and abuse, by their children.

    • @kathrynnoonan8457
      @kathrynnoonan8457 2 місяці тому +2

      True but there also needs to be more support available for these families to begin with. I’m not talking about the families where this is abuse because that’s never ok but there are lots of other good parents that give up there special needs kids because there is not enough help and support. I’m a special needs mum and I’m so grateful to have access to lots of supports but having lived experience helps me understand how these kids get abandoned. Often it’s also by parents with their own disabilities/mental health struggles that can barely look after themselves.

    • @Jenifer_G
      @Jenifer_G 2 місяці тому

      @@kathrynnoonan8457 good point

    • @hayley183
      @hayley183 Місяць тому

      ⁠@@kathrynnoonan8457This is so important. If the system put more money into supporting children at home then there would be less children in the foster system, in the prison system, in nursing homes. Children with disabilities need a broad support system and if the parents don’t have any support, it’s going to lead to caregiver burn out. A person can reach the point where they physically or mentally can not do it without help. That certainly does not EXCUSE doing something like Justin’s parents did, but it can help explain why that might happen.
      These kinds of changes are happening. I’m seeing it as a parent of 2 disabled children. They are slow though, and there needs to be more done.

  • @diamondcutter1983
    @diamondcutter1983 10 днів тому

    Thank you for sharing Justin’s story with us. I’m crying as I write this, I will never understand how that sweet boy was thrown away by his family! God Bless that young man!

  • @TattooedGranny
    @TattooedGranny 2 місяці тому +22

    I am glad Justin’s life was turned around by very caring staff. He was one of the lucky ones. It is wonderful to see him have a loving Dad and a good life.

  • @Big_Dog2303
    @Big_Dog2303 28 днів тому +1

    Bless those folks that adopted Justing. He now feels loved, safe and that he belongs. It's such a heartworming story.
    Thanks to all who looked out for Justin ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

  • @serenitypalmer490
    @serenitypalmer490 2 місяці тому +38

    I about bawled when I noticed he could read. That is HUGE. Love sometimes does make all the difference.

    • @MsMesem
      @MsMesem 2 місяці тому

      I think they found low IQ because of his traumatic and neglected child hood. The parents had no time for him so he could not develop.

  • @zelzabez593
    @zelzabez593 2 місяці тому +4

    Oh man, this had me crying at least 5 times. Both sad and happy tears.
    Thank you to the woman who made the film and to all the staff who take care of these kids. I’m so happy Justin found some love and kindness in his world. Not all kids have it so lucky…. and we all know that’s a very, very low and devastatingly heartbreaking bar. ❤

    • @tianna1116
      @tianna1116 Місяць тому

      Same, I was sobbing the entire time basically. My eyes are now puffy and sore.. and I will be thinking of Justin often and wondering how he’s doing. I hate the cruelty in this world so much

  • @rachelhowell5536
    @rachelhowell5536 2 місяці тому +93

    As a nurse it is heartbreaking to see the long term effects of deinstitutionalization ... Mental health is real and support is needed

    • @AlexGamingConsole
      @AlexGamingConsole 2 місяці тому +2

      It really don't even show him being free for you to make that comment. It doesn't have to do with this video at all.

    • @alsalcal
      @alsalcal 2 місяці тому +11

      ​@@AlexGamingConsole huh? Do you know what deinstitutionalization is? Their point was that if he could have been institutionalized in a mental health facility, he wouldnt have ended up in jail.

    • @YesWithYesse
      @YesWithYesse 2 місяці тому

      @@AlexGamingConsoletotally out of context

    • @drgirlfriend211
      @drgirlfriend211 Місяць тому

      @@AlexGamingConsole whelp… safe to say you don’t know what institutionalization means….. check your knowledge before you resort to being rude.,.

  • @sciencewithmrs.santiago6225
    @sciencewithmrs.santiago6225 5 днів тому

    The reunion with him and Kate, I’m in absolute stitches 😭😭😭
    He also says he doesn’t remember anything, but then remembers every single person by name. You can’t underestimate how powerful your impact can be 🥹🥹🥹

  • @Dr.BenjiBuddy
    @Dr.BenjiBuddy 2 місяці тому +27

    20:30 him running was a beautiful moment. He never should've been in prison. Thank god there were people who cared and made it happen, even tough it wasn't easy and wasn't cheap

  • @sunshinem.8216
    @sunshinem.8216 2 місяці тому +2

    Thank you Kate, you are an Angel.
    I hope you can go back and keep in touch with Justin.

  • @jessicaemghee
    @jessicaemghee 2 місяці тому +29

    When he talked about his mom. My heart hurts for this guy. MAN! That is so brutal.

  • @Carnivorecatherine
    @Carnivorecatherine 2 місяці тому +3

    My 29 yo son has Aspergers & mental illness. These are one of the most vulnerable populations. They don’t belong in the legal system & are in danger. My son was in juvie in junior high bc he assaulted me. I didn’t press charges, but bc of my injuries the law said he had to go. It was only a weekend, but if there were other options & therapy for him it would have been better. He was not prepared for living on his own as an adult, & was too much for me to handle on my own. I got my son into long term care. It was a difficult process. He still needs more support to thrive. It’s difficult.

  • @janehallowell5886
    @janehallowell5886 2 місяці тому +21

    I am so grateful that Justin found people who truly love him and want him to be the best he can be ❤❤❤

  • @perplexed6088
    @perplexed6088 2 місяці тому +2

    when Justin talks about his mom it just breaks my heart. Just boggles my mind how a mother just abando s her child. I wish him all the best.❤🙏🙏

  • @TinasCrazyLife
    @TinasCrazyLife 2 місяці тому +21

    My mama heart wants to take Justin in and just love him. Ive followed his story for a few years.

  • @AidaLorenzo-fj4oz
    @AidaLorenzo-fj4oz Місяць тому

    These dedicated and beautiful folks are changing the world for the youth. This has been a beautiful transitional initiative, and we are all grateful. Thank you

  • @ReynaDeOro
    @ReynaDeOro 2 місяці тому +10

    Bless the staff I crying this poor baby. May Justin be able to thrive, in a safe caring compassionate environment

  • @maxxitee4761
    @maxxitee4761 20 днів тому +2

    I hope Justin’s mom and dad come upon this video and it breaks their hearts as much as it is hurting us. They have 3 sons who need to see them if nothing more so they lose that sense of being abandoned. Come on ! Mum and dad

  • @ghostednobrand116
    @ghostednobrand116 2 місяці тому +16

    Mel is a great human! Justin had to go through a lot to finally learn what family can be. Super cool he found his brothers too.

  • @Clydekid
    @Clydekid 2 місяці тому +5

    Justin's biological family is missing out so glad he has a good life now. Well done this type of story is so incredibly rare.

  • @chilloften
    @chilloften 2 місяці тому +14

    I’m an RN and would adore working with these young people, abandoned.
    Thank you for loving and helping this kiddo.
    It hurts my heart so badly that mom can’t give, not an ounce. He still longs for her. 💔💔

    • @noneofyourbusiness0818
      @noneofyourbusiness0818 2 місяці тому

      That's an odd thing to say..that you would "adore" working with abandoned kids..

    • @chilloften
      @chilloften 2 місяці тому

      @@noneofyourbusiness0818 I think they’d adore having me around rather than you.

    • @grt1769
      @grt1769 2 місяці тому

      @@noneofyourbusiness0818 Jfc some ppl can't be happy with anything....

  • @harrietelizondo4439
    @harrietelizondo4439 15 днів тому

    Justin has brought tears to my eyes....Kate you have gone above and beyond for Justin. I see how proud you are. Keep up the great work for the childred .....

  • @KandMe1
    @KandMe1 2 місяці тому +15

    I am a little stunned to put it mildly. Yesterday I watched that movie about the girl who got held back by her drug addled addicted parents and after the mom died of aids she won a scholarship to top university through posting an essay through a NY Times comp. Sometimes these cut so deep but the promise of God, he stores our tears, keeps them, he saves them for us. Sometimes it’s too much; that judge, what he said, 20 years, his trouble sleeping. God bless Justin.

  • @jennyberggren6854
    @jennyberggren6854 Місяць тому +1

    What a beautiful documentary and I’m so, so happy to learn that Justin now has a family. ❤️
    It’s so tragic and maddening that his parents just dumped him like trash. You don’t deserve to be a parent if you do something like that.
    But this was the best possible outcome for Justin.
    Thank you for sharing his story.

  • @juliecowley6187
    @juliecowley6187 2 місяці тому +27

    Have a very happy and bright future Justin.

  • @michelegeraldinecarvalhokp7285
    @michelegeraldinecarvalhokp7285 2 місяці тому

    Thank you to every single one who helped Justin all this time. May God bless Justin n Mel plus all who care. Amen.

  • @longbottom4956
    @longbottom4956 2 місяці тому +20

    What an unbelievably happy ending to such a terrible story. Bless all those people who SAW him, right person at the right time in the right spot.

  • @terrisparks311
    @terrisparks311 Місяць тому +1

    There is a special place for his mother one day. Over all I think Justin is now where he belongs, just sad his own family did not want him - been through a terrible lonely life but now he is happy. Thank you God for putting these special people in Justin's path 🙏🙏

  • @Jeweleye62
    @Jeweleye62 2 місяці тому +9

    To all the kind and loving individuals who fought for Justin, thank you. To Mel....bravo, you are a legend and shining light for Justin in what had otherwise been a cruel world. ❤

  • @AK-lg6ju
    @AK-lg6ju Місяць тому +1

    Love this update and Justin. So happy he has a dad and saw the ocean. Much love to you for caring for him as well

  • @monicamacneille3372
    @monicamacneille3372 2 місяці тому +43

    Oh my goodness, I was really, really excited to see this update!!!! I'm so happy he was adopted!

  • @jedjones5406
    @jedjones5406 2 місяці тому +7

    I wish I could find a family too. I was an orphan and I had a very abusive foster family that I grew up with. I was sexually abused, and beaten badly every day of my life. I didn’t leave them until about a month before my 31st birthday. I went into a special needs trust. I had abusive staff there too. I am still quite scared and I suffer anxiety and depression. I always wished that I was adopted into a loving home that never hurt me. I have brain damage too. Even though I am 46 now I still wish I had a family. I get sad and cry myself to sleep at night. I have become a good caring and gentle person.

    • @singmysong1167
      @singmysong1167 2 місяці тому +1

      That's so sad, hun. Have you considered looking for and finding a caring church family in your community? Many churches have regular services, praise and worship, and church meal functions often. Sunday School classes, before the worship service, are where you can really get to know the groups. Hope this helps. Remember,
      "Cast all your cares upon Jesus, for He cares for You."

    • @jedjones5406
      @jedjones5406 2 місяці тому +2

      @@singmysong1167 Thanks 🤗😊☺️

    • @robbrent
      @robbrent Місяць тому +1

      Well done and best wishes from 🇿🇦. Share your love with others and you’ll be rewarded in return. You are special and loved.

    • @jedjones5406
      @jedjones5406 Місяць тому

      @@robbrent Thanks 🤗😊☺️

    • @jedjones5406
      @jedjones5406 Місяць тому

      @@robbrent Thanks 🤗😊☺️❤️

  • @MargaretaStLouis-bo5hr
    @MargaretaStLouis-bo5hr 2 місяці тому +18

    I'm crying my eyes out. Thank God for the people along the way who really cared about Justin. Thank God to Mr. Osborne who gave him a family. XOXOXO

  • @karlwalton3133
    @karlwalton3133 6 днів тому +1

    This is such a tragic yet beautiful story. So happy that Justin has finally found his family

  • @marywells9162
    @marywells9162 2 місяці тому +16

    God bless you all. I am so sorry Justin had to go through so much through his childhood. I believe he was instrumental in helping other children through his story. It is wonderful that you got to see the ocean!

  • @zzquickszzxbl6046
    @zzquickszzxbl6046 2 місяці тому +4

    Mel, Thank you...

  • @user-cy4vw1qj9m
    @user-cy4vw1qj9m 2 місяці тому +16

    I am so glad to see how well Justin has improved. I worked in the area myself so brilliant what those children can do with the right help ❤

  • @nikkieggleston1528
    @nikkieggleston1528 Місяць тому

    Justin's story has has moved me in ways I can't even explain. I haven't felt this wide range of emotions from an experience in out of all of my 41 years of life.

  • @CJLAWLESS8
    @CJLAWLESS8 2 місяці тому +13

    😭 caring and doing something to make kids lives better is so beautiful ❤

  • @mylinahmad3335
    @mylinahmad3335 Місяць тому

    I cant stop crying, i am so happy for Justin. May God bless him and protect him. Bless his heart.

  • @ChipVorhies
    @ChipVorhies 2 місяці тому +5

    This story was extremely sad and wonderful all-in-one.. Congratulations to Justin for his new family. I can't Express this enough. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to Mel. Mel is one extremely special human himself. And thank you.
    For the production of this video very well done.

  • @Jen-Inspired
    @Jen-Inspired Місяць тому +1

    My heart hurts for Justin…life isn’t fair. I’m so thankful for everyone that has helped Justin along the way…God bless you. Super proud of Justin’s progress. Gosh this is heavy 😢😢😢

  • @claireangel9595
    @claireangel9595 2 місяці тому +11

    Wow kate, thank you.
    Ive been loosely following Justins story for a few years now. Over the past month he has been popping in to my head more frequently, I had been apprehensive about checking back for an update because I was honestly afraid of what the answer could be. I am so grateful to see how life has turned out for Justin. Thank you for highlighting the stories that society hides. There is a special place in heaven for you kate. You are a blessing and so are all the people who care for our most vulnerable children. I just want to say in case you hadn't heard it lately, Im so proud of you kate. Love to you and yours.

  • @MrDarthVadersMom
    @MrDarthVadersMom Місяць тому

    Thank you to the heroes who cared and continue to care for kids like Justin. And much respect and love to Justin!

  • @quisuis-je
    @quisuis-je 2 місяці тому +15

    I believe Justin would be 29 roughly today. I hope all is well young man. - God Bless