Stepmother Charged After Emaciated Man Says He Was Held Captive for 20 Years

Police said the man had endured prolonged abuse, severe neglect, and inhumane treatment over the years.

Kim Sullivan who is charged with neglect, stands with her attorney Ioannis Kaloidis (R) during her arraignment at Waterbury Superior Court in Waterbury, Conn., on March 12, 2025. Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut Media via AP, Pool

A Connecticut man who claimed he was held captive for two decades was rescued after setting his room on fire in a desperate attempt to regain his freedom, police said Wednesday.

The man’s stepmother—who owns the house—now faces charges of cruelty and kidnapping.