Connecticut woman accused of holding stepson captive for 20 years pleads not guilty

Kimberly Sullivan, 56, has pleaded not guilty in a Waterbury, Connecticut court to charges of kidnapping, felony assault, and cruelty, among others, after allegedly holding her stepson captive for two decades. Sullivan's court appearance on Friday followed proceedings that commenced earlier in the week, where she elected to go to trial by jury. A judge ruled that while she would wear a GPS tracking bracelet, she would not face house arrest.

The case came to light last month when the victim, now 32, reportedly set a fire in an attempt to signal for help. He was found by first responders, and body camera footage captured the moment firefighters carried him out. At the time of the rescue, the man was severely emaciated, measuring 5 feet 9 inches and weighing just 69 pounds. He revealed that he had been confined to a small room without heating or air conditioning for the majority of his life since the age of 11.

The investigation into his situation dates back to 2005, when Waterbury Police and Children's Services conducted a welfare check after the victim stopped attending school. During that visit, no alarming signs were detected, though it was later revealed that he had begged classmates for food and had scavenged items from the garbage. He recounted being allowed only brief exits from his room to perform chores, with conditions worsening following the death of his father last year.

The victim's biological mother, Tracy Vallerand, has not seen him since he was six months old after she gave up custody. Vallerand believed her decision was in his best interest. Meanwhile, Heather Tessman, the victim’s half-sister, expressed frustration over not being able to visit him during his recovery due to the ongoing investigation.

Kimberly Sullivan is scheduled to appear in court again on April 22nd as the legal proceedings continue. This case highlights grave issues regarding child welfare and the responsibilities of authorities in recognizing and addressing signs of abuse.