A Connecticut man, who claimed he had been held captive for two decades, was rescued after setting his room on fire in a desperate bid for freedom, police reported on Wednesday.
The 32-year-old man, described as severely emaciated, was found in an upstairs room by Waterbury first responders after they were called to a house fire last month. While receiving treatment for smoke inhalation, he admitted to intentionally starting the blaze.
I wanted my freedom, he told police, alleging that he had been held captive since he was about 11 years old.
Authorities said their investigation revealed that the victim had endured prolonged abuse, starvation, severe neglect, and inhumane treatment for over 20 years. He reportedly had not received any medical or dental care during that time.
The man’s stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, 56, was arrested and charged with assault, kidnapping, unlawful restraint, cruelty, and reckless endangerment. She was arraigned Wednesday and is currently being held on a $300,000 bond.
