How did the 32-year-old man manage to escape his captivity after 20 years?

The man set fire to his room, which led to his rescue by first responders. He stated that he did this to gain his freedom.

What charges has Kimberly Sullivan, the stepmother, faced in relation to the man's captivity?

Kimberly Sullivan has been charged with assault, kidnapping, unlawful restraint, cruelty, and reckless endangerment.

How has Kimberly Sullivan responded to the allegations against her?

Kimberly Sullivan denies the allegations, claiming they are not true. Her attorney plans to mount a vigorous defense as more information becomes available.

What was the condition of the man when he was rescued?

The man was emaciated and had not received medical or dental care during his captivity. He was treated for smoke inhalation after setting the fire.

3 sources·World

Connecticut Man Rescued After 20-Year Captivity; Stepmother Charged with Abuse

A man held captive for over 20 years in Connecticut was rescued after setting fire to his room; his stepmother faces kidnapping charges.

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Reliable

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Balanced

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The suffering this victim endured for over 20 years is both heartbreaking and unimaginable.
Police charge stepmother after emaciated man says he was held captive
ABC News·8d
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
It seems like this went on for quite a long time and Kimberly was very successful hiding this from the public eye and even her family's eyes.
Stepmom held man captive for decades until he set house on fire, officials say
NBC News·8d
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
The suffering this victim endured for over 20 years is both heartbreaking and unimaginable.
Police charge stepmother after emaciated man says he was held captive for more than 20 years
Associated Press·8d
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

Mar 13th, 2025, 1:07 AM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

A Connecticut man, 32, was rescued after setting fire to escape captivity where he allegedly endured abuse and neglect for over 20 years. His stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, has been charged with kidnapping and cruelty. Investigators reported the man was severely malnourished and hadn't received medical care during his imprisonment. Sullivan denies the allegations, claiming she provided care. The case has drawn attention to potential oversight by relatives and authorities during the years of isolation.

Perspectives

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A man in Connecticut was held captive by his stepmother for over 20 years, suffering from severe neglect and abuse, until he escaped by setting a fire to his room.
Kimberly Sullivan, the stepmother, has been charged with kidnapping and related offenses, but she denies the allegations through her attorney, claiming she provided care and shelter.
Law enforcement officials and relatives express shock at the severity of the victim's mistreatment, emphasizing the systemic failure to recognize and address the abuse for years.

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