DNA Test Confirms Natalia Grace’s Real Age Amid Barnett Controversy

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — A recent blood test has revealed that Natalia Grace, a Ukrainian orphan previously adopted by Indiana couple Michael and Kristine Barnett, is approximately 22 years old, contradicting the couple’s longstanding claims about her age.

The test, conducted by TruDiagnostic in August 2023, suggests that Natalia was likely around nine years old when the Barnetts adopted her in 2010. This finding has drawn renewed scrutiny on the couple’s allegations that Natalia was an adult posing as a child.

In the wake of this revelation, Natalia stated, “This one little piece of paper throws every single lie that the Barnetts have said right into the trash with a match. They ruined a kid’s life. They painted [me] as some big monster,” during her appearance in the docuseries “Natalia Speaks.”

The Barnetts first suspected that Natalia was older than she claimed when they noticed early signs of puberty. They reported disturbing incidents, including her alleged attempts to poison Kristine’s coffee and setting traps around the house. As a result, the couple petitioned the Marion County Probate Court in 2012 to legally change her age to 22.

The Barnetts relocated to Canada that same year, leaving Natalia in a Lafayette apartment, prompting a series of legal battles over her wellbeing. Medical evaluations conducted shortly after the adoption suggested that Natalia was between nine and eleven years old. A dentist had also noted that she had retained 12 baby teeth, further indicating her youthful age.

Michael Barnett was acquitted on some charges of neglect in 2022, while Kristine faced legal proceedings that ultimately did not culminate in a trial. Following the August 2023 lab test, a court reversed the age change, restoring Natalia’s birth year to 2003, making her age 21 as of 2025.

In the years following her exit from the Barnett household, she lived with the Mans family, who legally adopted her in 2023. However, Natalia alleged that she experienced abuse within that environment, prompting her to flee. In her current home with the DePaul family, Natalia reported a more stable and peaceful life.

Nicole DePaul, who has taken Natalia into her home, noted the challenges Natalia faces, stating, “At first it was bumpy because the Mans were still involved. They were calling Natalia constantly and trying to wheel her back in.” Despite these difficulties, DePaul shared that their current relationship is mostly peaceful.

Reflecting on her tumultuous past, Natalia expressed gratitude for her current circumstances, saying, “It’s a blessing to be alive today because looking back at my 7-year-old self, I should have been dead.” She is currently studying for her GED, with aspirations of becoming a school teacher.

Kristine Barnett has publicly denied the abuse allegations, asserting that her family provided care for Natalia. In a Facebook post, she described Natalia as a “very much loved and cared for member of my family,” asserting that her discipline was minimal.

The unfolding story of Natalia Grace continues to raise questions about adoption practices and the complexities involved in familial relationships. As more details emerge, her journey stands as a poignant narrative of survival amidst adversity.