Watch CBS News

Amanda Berry, Cleveland kidnapping victim, makes surprise public appearance

CLEVELAND One of three women held captive in a Cleveland home for a decade has appeared at a public event for the first time since her rescue, a day after her abductor pleaded guilty in the case.

Amanda Berry made a surprise appearance at the daylong concert RoverFest in Cleveland on Saturday night.

The 27-year-old Berry walked on stage with her family and waved to the cheering crowd. The rapper Nelly called Berry back to the stage after his music set.

Berry didn't address the crowd, but an announcer at the event told those in attendance that she had some "partying" to catch up on, and that the crowd should help her out. Berry responded by raising her arm in acknowledgment of the crowd's cheer.

Ariel Castro pleaded guilty Friday to imprisoning Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight and subjecting them to rapes and beating for a decade. The women disappeared between 2002 and 2004, when they were 14, 16 and 20. They escaped in May.

The plea deal will keep Castro imprisoned for life.

Sources tell CBS News' investigative unit that one of the three women is expected to testify live in court during the Thursday hearing, during which Ariel Castro will be formally sentenced. The two other women may confront Castro via video, though those plans have not yet been finalized.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.