Woman Accused of Holding Stepson Captive for More Than 20 Years Set to Face Trial After Rejecting Plea Deals

A Connecticut woman accused of imprisoning and abusing her stepson for more than two decades is expected to stand trial in February 2027 after rejecting plea offers, as a judge reviews records that could become part of the case.

Kimberly Sullivan, 57, of Waterbury, drew national attention after her stepson, now 33, allegedly set fire to his bedroom on February 17, 2025, in a desperate attempt to escape. When emergency responders arrived, they found the man severely malnourished and in extremely poor health. According to police, he weighed just 68 pounds despite being approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall.

Investigators said the man told authorities he had been held captive since he was 11 years old and subjected to prolonged abuse, starvation and severe neglect. Police alleged that he had been confined for years and had not received adequate medical or dental care. Photographs released by authorities reportedly showed extensive fire damage, cluttered rooms and locks on the outside of doors inside the home.

The case took another step forward on October 20, 2026, when a judge began reviewing confidential records obtained from Connecticut’s Department of Children and Families, Waterbury Public Schools and another treatment facility. The judge will determine which records may be used during the upcoming proceedings. Officials have previously confirmed that child welfare authorities visited the family several times between 1996 and 2005.

Sullivan has pleaded not guilty and denies the allegations. Her attorney has argued that the claim that she held the man captive for 20 years is false. In September 2026, Sullivan rejected two plea offers that would have involved prison time, choosing instead to proceed toward trial.

She faces charges including two counts of first-degree kidnapping, first-degree assault, unlawful restraint and intentional cruelty to persons. If convicted, she could face a lengthy prison sentence. Jury selection is expected to begin in January 2027, with the presentation of evidence scheduled for February. The allegations remain unproven, and Sullivan is presumed innocent unless convicted.

Source: NBC News | NBC Connecticut — October 20, 2026