Woman accused of holding stepson captive for 20 years pleads not guilty

WATERBURY, Connecticut -- Kimberly Sullivan, accused of holding her stepson captive for decades, pleaded not guilty in court on Friday. Appearing for the first time as part of proceedings that began earlier in the week, Sullivan opted for a jury trial. A judge ordered her to wear a GPS tracking bracelet but decided against imposing house arrest.

The 56-year-old Sullivan faces serious charges, including kidnapping, felony assault, and cruelty to persons, stemming from allegations that she locked her son in a room for 20 years. The victim, now 32, was rescued after he set a fire to attract attention from first responders. Body camera footage captured the moment a firefighter carried him out, revealing he was emaciated at just 69 pounds and over five feet tall.

For much of his life, the victim was confined to a small room without heat or air conditioning, with limited opportunities to leave for chores. Conditions reportedly worsened after his father passed away last year. During a 2005 welfare check by Waterbury Police and Children's Services, no issues were detected, despite the victim having pleaded with classmates for food and scavenging for scraps.

The victim's biological mother, Tracy Vallerand, has expressed regret over giving up custody when he was an infant, believing it to be in his best interest. She has not seen him since he was six months old. His half-sister, Heather Tessman, revealed that neither she nor their mother has been allowed to visit him during his recovery at an undisclosed location due to the ongoing investigation.

Sullivan’s next court date is scheduled for April 22, as the case continues to unfold amidst shocking revelations of the prolonged abuse the victim suffered.