A Connecticut man was allegedly held captive and starved by his stepmother for over two decades, before setting their house on fire to escape. Authorities found the emaciated 32-year-old man in the burning home and described the abuse he endured as severe neglect and inhumane treatment. The man confessed to deliberately starting the fire in order to gain his freedom. His stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, was arrested and charged with kidnapping, assault, and unlawful restraint. She denies the allegations through her attorney, claiming she provided food and shelter to the man.
The man, identified as MV-1, was kept in an 8-by-9-foot room since the 4th grade, only let out briefly each day to do chores. His father reportedly allowed him out on weekends before his death, but the captivity intensified under Sullivan’s care. Despite wanting to reveal his situation, MV-1 feared further punishment and deprivation of food if he spoke out. Family members and officials had limited contact with the family over the years and were unaware of the man’s conditions. Authorities noted the lack of action by those close to the victim, with family members dismissing concerns raised by an uncle who noticed the man’s deteriorating state.
The case has been described as one of the worst acts of inhumanity observed by law enforcement and has shocked both the community and authorities. The stepmother remains in custody on a $300,000 bond while the investigation continues into the prolonged abuse and neglect suffered by the man over the years.
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