Man held captive for 20 years asks prosecutors why stepmother is free after being charged - WTOP News

WATERBURY, Conn. (AP) -- A Connecticut man who claims he was held captive in his home for two decades expressed his frustration at a court hearing regarding his stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, who has been charged with various crimes, including cruelty, kidnapping, and felony assault. During the hearing, state prosecutor Don Therkildsen highlighted the victim's fear, stating that he questioned why Sullivan was free while he endured such severe confinement.

Sullivan, 57, pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on $300,000 bail after her arrest on March 12. The victim, now 32, was discovered at just 69 pounds and shared that he had been confined to a small room since he was about 11 years old, with minimal access to food and water. Therkildsen urged the court for house arrest for Sullivan, citing concerns that she might flee.

The victim's plight came to light when he set a fire in their home on February 17, seeking rescue. Upon his rescue, he was hospitalized for malnutrition and revealed his traumatic history of being locked away and denied basic necessities. Authorities are investigating how his situation went unnoticed for so long, pointing to a failure in oversight, particularly in relation to homeschooling.

Reports emerged that the man had been unenrolled from public school in 2004 after educators raised concerns about his weight and well-being. Although social services were notified, it's unclear what actions were taken, which has led to calls for increased monitoring of homeschooling practices.

As authorities continue to investigate the case, including reviewing previously unlocated records related to the family from the state Department of Children and Families, the man remains haunted by his past experiences under Sullivan's alleged abuse. His struggle has prompted discussions on protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring better oversight mechanisms are in place.