Connecticut Woman Denies Charges of Holding Stepson Captive for 20 Years

Kimberly Sullivan appears in court as her stepson recovers from alleged decades of abuse, sparking calls for systemic reforms in child welfare and homeschooling oversight.

Kimberly Sullivan, 56, plans to plead not guilty to charges of kidnapping, assault, and cruelty in connection to allegations she confined her stepson for over 20 years.
The 32-year-old alleged victim, found emaciated at 70 pounds, claims he was confined to a locked room and given minimal food and water since age 11.
The case came to light when the victim set fire to their Waterbury, Connecticut home in February 2025 in what he described as a desperate bid for freedom.
The victim’s biological mother and half-sister have expressed their desire to reunite with him as he recovers at a medical facility from physical and emotional trauma.
Advocacy groups and lawmakers are urging reforms to address oversight gaps in Connecticut’s homeschooling and child welfare systems following the case.