New information is coming to light in the case of Waterbury woman accused of holding her stepson captive for more than 20 years.

"Thirty-three years in law enforcement, and this is the worst treatment of humanity that I've ever witnessed," said Waterbury Chief of Police Fernando Spagnolo. "Here's an adult who's 5 foot 9 and is 68 pounds, there's some apparent orthopedic issues. The room was very small, and when I read about it, talk to the investigators and overlook the interviews, it was worse than the conditions of a jail cell."

Police were called to the Blake Street home of the victim's stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, after a fire back in February. They say the victim told them that he intentionally set the fire in his room because he wanted "freedom."

Sullivan was arraigned in court yesterday on charges including assault in the first degree, kidnapping in the second degree, unlawful restraint in the first degree, cruelty to persons and reckless endangerment in the first degree. Sullivan was granted bond. A judge denied a request for 24-hour home confinement and electronic monitoring. Sullivan will have to check in with adult probation regularly.

They say the biological father in this matter died back in January 2024 and that prior to his passing, the father was "wheelchair-bound from some medical conditions."

"We are shocked and saddened for the victim and at the unspeakable conditions he endured. The now adult victim has shown incredible strength and resilience during this time of healing and our hearts go out to him.

"As a result, the Department of Children and Families has looked extensively at our current and historical databases and, to date, have been unable to locate any records pertaining to this family nor any records connected to the names of others who have indicated they made reports to our Department. In accordance with state regulation, it should also be noted that reports of neglect and abuse that have been investigated and not substantiated are expunged 5 years after completion of the investigation provided there are no other substantiated reports.

"We will continue our search and ask anyone with additional information to contact the Waterbury Police Department.

"These horrors serve as a reminder that it takes the diligent efforts of all members of the community - family, friends, neighbors, and professionals - to protect children from abuse and neglect.

"A reasonable suspicion of child maltreatment can be made to the Child Abuse and Neglect Careline by dialing 1-800-842-2288. The Careline is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Callers to the Careline can remain anonymous.

"As additional information is learned, the Department will be as transparent as possible while working within the parameters of both federal and state confidentiality laws."