Connecticut Woman Arrested for 20-Year Captivity of Stepson

WATERBURY, Conn. (WFSB) — A Connecticut woman has been arrested on multiple charges, including kidnapping, after it was revealed that she allegedly held her stepson captive for more than 20 years.

Kimberly Sullivan, 56, was taken into custody on March 12 after police responded to a fire at her home on Blake Street on February 17. First responders discovered her severely emaciated stepson, now 32, who reportedly set the fire in a desperate bid for freedom.

The Waterbury Police Department has stated that the victim endured “prolonged abuse, starvation, severe neglect, and inhumane treatment” while being confined to an 8-by-9-foot room. According to authorities, he weighed only 68 pounds when found and had not received medical or dental care for years.

During the fire response, the victim told police, “I wanted my freedom” and described his lengthy captivity, beginning when he was around 11 years old. Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo called the case “one of the worst acts of inhumanity” he has witnessed in his 33 years in law enforcement.

Sullivan faces charges including first-degree assault, second-degree kidnapping, first-degree unlawful restraint, cruelty to persons, and first-degree reckless endangerment. She was arraigned on March 12, and her bond has been set at $300,000.

Her attorney, Ioannis Kaloidis, has publicly denied the allegations, claiming that Sullivan did not lock her stepson in a room but rather provided him with food and shelter. “She is blown away by these allegations,” Kaloidis said, insisting that the defense would present evidence to support Sullivan’s innocence.

In 2005, the family was under investigation by the Department of Children and Families (DCF) after concerns were raised by school officials regarding the victim’s well-being, but authorities found no cause to take action at that time. Sullivan’s defense suggests that DCF investigations did not uncover evidence of the alleged abuse, though the agency has stated they are currently reviewing the case.

After being rescued from the fire, the stepson expressed gratitude to the first responders and is now receiving medical treatment, as he has been described as resembling a “survivor of Auschwitz.”

According to investigators, Sullivan had used multiple locks to secure her stepson’s room over the years and employed manipulative tactics to maintain control over him. The victim reported being allowed out only for chores and occasionally to interact with pets, stating that he feared greater punishment and deprivation of food if he revealed his situation.

As the investigation continues, the Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate has initiated a review of the case, vowing transparency while working within legal parameters. Authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward as they seek to ensure justice is served.

Sullivan’s next court appearance is set for March 26, where she is expected to enter a not guilty plea. This case has raised significant concern over the condition of vulnerable individuals and the role of community oversight in preventing such abuses.