Connecticut Woman Kimberly Sullivan Denies Charges of Keeping Stepson Captive for Two Decades - Internewscast Journal

WATERBURY, Connecticut -- Kimberly Sullivan, the woman accused of holding her stepson captive for two decades, entered a not guilty plea in court on Friday, opting for a jury trial. This appearance was part of the ongoing legal proceedings that began earlier in the week.

Sullivan, 56, faces serious charges, including kidnapping, felony assault, and cruelty to persons due to allegations that she locked her son in a small room for much of his life. A judge has mandated that she wear a GPS tracking bracelet but will not be under house arrest while awaiting trial.

The disturbing case resurfaced last month when the now 32-year-old man deliberately set a fire to attract emergency responders, leading to his rescue. Body camera footage captured firefighters carrying him away, revealing his alarming condition; he stood at 5 feet 9 inches and weighed only 69 pounds. He reported being confined to a room without heat or air conditioning since he was about 11.

This isn't the first time law enforcement had been alerted to the young man's situation. In 2005, a welfare check by Waterbury Police and Children’s Services found nothing amiss, despite the victim seeking food from classmates and scavenging for scraps. Conditions reportedly deteriorated further following the death of his father last year, with the victim only occasionally allowed out for chores.

The victim's biological mother, Tracy Vallerand, who has not seen her son since he was six months old, expressed regret over her decision to give up custody, believing it was in his best interest. Both she and the victim's half-sister, Heather Tessman, have been denied visitation rights during his recovery due to the ongoing investigation. Sullivan's next court date is scheduled for April 22nd.