WATERBURY, CT — The Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) has announced the discovery of archived records related to the family of a 32-year-old man who alleges he was held captive by his stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, for over two decades. This development follows initial statements from DCF indicating an inability to locate pertinent records in the Waterbury captivity case.
The man, who was rescued from a burning home in February, reported that he had been confined since the age of 11 and was subjected to severe malnutrition, weighing only 68 pounds at the time of his rescue. He recounted that his stepmother removed him from school after DCF visited their home twice due to concerns about his well-being.
Kimberly Sullivan, 56, has been charged with first-degree assault, second-degree kidnapping, unlawful restraint, cruelty to persons, and reckless endangerment. She was released on a $300,000 bond and has denied the allegations.
In a recent statement, DCF Commissioner Jodi Hill-Lilly explained that the agency conducted an extensive search of their computerized database, initially finding no records. However, further investigation into archived closed records revealed documents pertaining to the case. These records are currently under review to assess DCF’s involvement with the family over 20 years ago. Hill-Lilly emphasized the department’s commitment to transparency and collaboration with law enforcement and the Office of the Child Advocate.
This case has prompted discussions about the effectiveness of child protection services and the oversight of homeschooling in Connecticut. Lawmakers and advocacy groups are calling for reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
