Gina DeJesus adopted a dog that belonged to her alleged kidnapper Ariel Castro in Ohio, Cleveland's 19 Action News reported on May 31.

An attorney for DeJesus claimed a terrier-poodle mix for the 23-year-old on May 31. Amanda Berry and Michelle Knight, the other women allegedly kidnapped and held captive along with DeJesus, reportedly declined to adopt any of the animals.

Three small dogs were taken from Castro's home in Ohio when the women were discovered on May 6. The animals, another terrier-poodle mix and a Chihuahua, spent time at the Cleveland City Kennels. The women were each given the offer to take in one of the animals before they were placed for adoption.

DeJesus' adoption is the latest sign that the young woman is attempting to return to a life of normalcy. Berry, Knight and DeJesus told police that Castro held them hostage and bound by chains since their early teens and young adulthood. Despite the circumstances, sources told PEOPLE in May that the three women bonded.

"They are like sisters," Matt Zone, a city councilman close to the DeJesus family, said. "They were a family."

Knight and DeJesus were described as the closest to each other. An insider said that the two women spent most of their time together while being held against their will. The bond has continued after the women were freed. DeJesus visited Knight in the hospital before she was released on May 10. Knight's's brother Freddie, described the visit as one of "two best friends."

It was also reported that the DeJesus family would "adopt" Knight and welcome her into their family. Lupe Collins, a friend of the DeJesus family and who aided in the years long search, said that Knight felt that her own family only wanted money.

"Michelle doesn't want to go back to her own family because they abused her before she was kidnapped and they only want the money now," Collins said.

Tags
Gina DeJesus, Ariel castro