Charlie Bothuell , now 13 , was discovered in Detroit basement last June . Blanket , cereal box and a bowl of chicken bones were in room with him . On Tuesday , Charlie testified in court against his father and stepmother . He said he had been abused by the mother for years. Claimed he was tormented with workouts and isolated from other kids . He attempted suicide in bid to escape abusive conditions , he told court . It is first time Charlie has spoken publicly since he was found by police . Hearing is meant to determine if there is enough evidence to send the youngster 's father and stepmother to trial for 'torture and child abuse '
Charlie Bothuell , now 13 , was discovered in Detroit basement last June . Blanket , cereal box and a bowl of chicken bones were in room with him . On Tuesday , Charlie testified in court against his father and stepmother . Said home was 'very terrible place to be ' where he was regularly beaten . Claimed he was tormented with workouts and isolated from other kids . He attempted suicide in bid to escape abusive conditions , he told court . It is first time Charlie has spoken publicly since he was found by police . Hearing is meant to determine if there is enough evidence to send the youngster 's father and stepmother to trial for 'torture and child abuse '