Mum ‘held stepson captive’ for 20 years in ‘house of horror’ before he made brave act to escape knowing he could die

A 32-year-old man in Waterbury, Connecticut, made a desperate and courageous escape from what police describe as a “house of horror” after allegedly being held captive and abused by his stepmother for over 20 years.

The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, intentionally started a fire in his upstairs room in February, knowing it could cost him his life, but he told police, “I wanted my freedom.

The fire led to his rescue by emergency responders, who found him suffering from smoke inhalation and severe malnourishment.

He revealed to authorities that his stepmother, 56-year-old Kimberly Sullivan, had held him captive since he was about 11 years old, subjecting him to prolonged abuse, starvation, neglect, and inhumane treatment.

Police launched an investigation following the man’s “alarming” allegations and determined that he had been deprived of basic necessities, including adequate food, water, and medical or dental care, for two decades. The situation reportedly worsened after his father passed away last year.

The man was found in an “extremely emaciated condition,” having endured unimaginable suffering. Prosecutors revealed in court that the man used hand sanitizer and printer paper to start the fire, fully aware of the risks but desperate to escape his confinement.

Kimberly Sullivan was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including first-degree assault, second-degree kidnapping, first-degree unlawful restraint, cruelty to persons, and first-degree reckless endangerment.

During her arraignment, Sullivan denied the allegations, with her attorney stating that she was “stunned” by the accusations and plans to mount a vigorous defense.

However, police and prosecutors have described the case as one of the most harrowing they have encountered, with Waterbury Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo calling the victim’s suffering “heartbreaking and unimaginable.”

The investigation revealed that only Sullivan and her stepson were living in the home at the time of the fire. Authorities praised the dedication of the officers and the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office for their relentless efforts in ensuring justice for the victim.

The case has shocked the community and highlighted the importance of vigilance in identifying and addressing cases of prolonged abuse and neglect. As the legal process unfolds, the victim’s brave act of defiance has brought his decades-long ordeal to light, offering him a chance at freedom and justice.