WATERBURY, Conn. (WTNH) — A woman has been arrested in Waterbury after allegedly kidnapping a man and holding him captive for over 20 years, according to police.
On Feb. 17, crews responded to a fire at a home on Blake Street in Waterbury. Two people, 56-year-old Kimberly Sullivan and a 32-year-old man were inside the home at the time. Sullivan was able to evacuate safely and the man was helped out by firefighters.
While being evaluated by EMS for smoke inhalation, the victim allegedly disclosed to first responders that he intentionally set the fire in his upstairs room because he “wanted his freedom.” He continued by alleging that he had been held captive by Sullivan since he was 11-years-old.
After an extensive investigation, detectives determined that the victim had been held captive for over 20 years, enduring abuse, starvation, severe neglect and inhumane treatment. He was found in a severely emaciated condition and had not received any medical or dental care during his time in captivity and was given minimal amounts of food and water.
Sullivan was arrested on Wednesday and charged with:
- Assault in the First Degree
- Kidnapping in the Second Degree
- Unlawful Restraint in the First Degree
- Cruelty to Persons
- Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree
She was arraigned in court and her bond was set at $300,000. She will be held in custody of the Connecticut Department of Corrections.