Stepmom arrested for holding stepson hostage for 20 years

A man allegedly held captive by his stepmom for 20 years deliberately set fire to their home in Waterbury, Connecticut, last month to escape, police said.

The woman, identified by Waterbury police as 56-year-old Kimberly Sullivan, was arrested Wednesday following an extensive investigation into her stepson’s shocking claims.

Waterbury police and fire officials responded to reports of an active fire at a residence on Blake Street on the evening of Feb. 17. Police said two occupants were inside the home at the time – Sullivan and her 32-year-old stepson.

Sullivan was able to evacuate safely. Fire officials assisted her stepson out of the home and placed him in the care of EMS because he had suffered smoke inhalation and exposure to the fire.

The stepson told police he intentionally set fire to the upstairs room, stating: “I wanted my freedom.” He alleged that Sullivan had held him captive since he was 11 years old.

Police launched an investigation in collaboration with the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office and determined that the stepson had indeed been held captive for more than 20 years.