Archive · 18 Dec 2025
US Woman Reunites With Father After 42-Year Abduction
A woman named Michelle was taken by her mom when she was just three years old.
She grew up not knowing her real name or family.
Many years later, the police found her and told her the truth.
She then met her dad, Joseph, for the first time in 42 years.
It was a very happy and emotional moment for both of them.
Her mom, Debra, was arrested and is in trouble for taking her.
Michelle and her dad are now trying to heal and be together again.
Michelle Marie Newton was abducted by her mother, Debra Newton, at age 3 in 1983.
She lived under the name Sharon Nealy, unaware of her true identity until 2025.
Police found Debra Newton in The Villages, Florida, after a tip from Crime Stoppers.
Michelle reunited with her father, Joseph Newton, in an emotional meeting.
Debra Newton was charged with felony custodial interference and attended court with Michelle and Joseph.
- Who
- Michelle Marie Newton (formerly Sharon Nealy) and her father Joseph Newton
- What
- Reunion after 42 years following an abduction by her mother, Debra Newton
- When
- November 2025
- Where
- The Villages, Florida
- Why
- Debra Newton abducted Michelle and lived under a new identity, unaware of her true past
- Victim's Name
- Michelle Marie Newton (Sharon Nealy)
- Abductor's Name
- Debra Newton
- Victim's Age at Abduction
- 3 years old
- Years Missing
- 42 years
- Location Found
- The Villages, Florida
- Charge Against Abductor
- Felony custodial interference
- FBI List
- Top 8 Most Wanted for parental kidnappings
