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Connecticut Man Held Captive for 20 Years Speaks Out After Escape

The man, now identifying as 'S,' shares his journey of survival, recovery, and reclaiming his identity after escaping decades of alleged abuse and neglect.

  • S, a 32-year-old man, released his first public statement after escaping alleged captivity and abuse in his family home in Waterbury, Connecticut, where he says he was held for over 20 years.
  • He intentionally set a fire in February 2025 to escape, leading to his rescue by first responders who found him severely emaciated, weighing just 68 pounds.
  • S expressed gratitude to healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and community supporters, including a GoFundMe campaign that has raised nearly $270,000 for his recovery and legal expenses.
  • His stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, faces charges including kidnapping and assault but has pleaded not guilty and remains free on bail with GPS monitoring.
  • The case has prompted scrutiny of systemic failures in child welfare oversight and homeschooling regulations, with ongoing investigations and calls for reform.
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