March 13, 2025
Incident Overview
On February 17, 2025, a 32-year-old man set fire to his residence in Waterbury, Connecticut, in a desperate attempt to escape what he described as over two decades of captivity. Firefighters responding to the blaze rescued the severely emaciated individual, who revealed he had been confined since the age of 11.
Discovery and Rescue
Upon arrival, emergency responders found the man in a “severely emaciated condition,” with matted hair and apparent dental neglect. He informed firefighters that he had intentionally started the fire, stating, “I wanted my freedom.”
Allegations of Prolonged Abuse
The victim alleged that his stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, 56, had held him captive for over 20 years. He described being confined to a small, unheated storage space measuring approximately eight by nine feet, with limited access to food and water. He recounted resorting to drinking from the toilet due to severe dehydration and receiving minimal nourishment.
Legal Actions and Charges
Following an investigation, Sullivan was arrested and charged with second-degree kidnapping, first-degree assault, cruelty to a person, first-degree unlawful restraint, and first-degree reckless endangerment. She was arraigned on March 12, 2025, with bond set at $300,000.
Victim’s Condition and Statements
The victim, weighing only 68 pounds at the time of rescue, disclosed that he had not received medical or dental care during his captivity. He stated that his confinement worsened following his father’s death, leading him to take drastic measures to gain freedom.
Community and Official Responses
Neighbors expressed shock upon learning of the prolonged abuse. Waterbury Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo described the case as “heartbreaking and unimaginable,” commending the dedication of officers and the State’s Attorney’s Office in ensuring justice.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the victim’s prolonged captivity, seeking to understand how such severe abuse remained undetected for over two decades.
This case has raised significant concerns about community awareness and the effectiveness of social safety nets in preventing prolonged abuse.