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"In Deeper Waters": The Tragedy and Aftermath of Chessy Prout's Murder

Julio Cortázar

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On January 11, 2014, 16-year-old Chessy Prout vanished from her family's home in Derry, New Hampshire. Her disappearance sent shockwaves through the community and sparked a massive search effort. For months, investigators tirelessly pursued every lead, but Chessy's fate remained a mystery.

In Deeper Waters

by Chessy Prout

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Language	:	English
File size	:	46452 KB
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Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	365 pages

Then, on June 17, 2014, Chessy's body was discovered in a marshy area near her home. The news of her murder sent waves of grief and outrage throughout the nation. It later emerged that Chessy had been abducted, sexually assaulted, and strangled by a man named Adam Montgomery. Montgomery was arrested and charged with Chessy's murder, and he was eventually sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The circumstances surrounding Chessy's murder were particularly heinous and disturbing. Montgomery had a history of stalking and harassing young women, and he had previously been arrested for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. Despite his criminal record, Montgomery was not on the police's radar at the time of Chessy's disappearance, and he was able to remain at large for months.

Chessy's murder also raised serious questions about the adequacy of law enforcement response to cases of missing and exploited children. Her parents repeatedly expressed frustration with the police's initial handling of Chessy's case, and they accused the authorities of failing to take her disappearance seriously. This criticism has led to calls for reforms in the way that law enforcement agencies handle missing person cases, particularly those involving young women of color.

In the years since Chessy's murder, her family and friends have worked tirelessly to raise awareness about sexual violence against young women and to advocate for stronger laws to protect victims. They have also established the Chessy Prout Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides support to survivors of sexual assault and their families.

Chessy Prout's murder was a tragedy that has had a profound impact on her family, friends, and community. Her story is a reminder of the prevalence of sexual violence against young women, the inadequacy of law enforcement response, and the enduring impact of trauma on survivors and their loved ones. But Chessy's legacy is also one of hope and resilience. Her family's tireless advocacy has helped to raise awareness about sexual violence and has led to calls for reforms in the way that law enforcement agencies handle missing person cases. And the Chessy Prout Foundation continues to provide support to survivors of sexual assault and their families, ensuring that Chessy's memory will live on through her work.