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Connecticut Man Publicly Addresses Decades of Captivity Following Rescue
A Connecticut man, allegedly held captive for over two decades by his stepmother, has released his first public statement since a fire incident led to his liberation. The individual, identified only as “S,” described himself as a “survivor of prolonged captivity and domestic abuse,” adding that he was held against his will in his own residence from age 11 until recently at age 31. He stated that intentionally starting the fire two months prior was instrumental in securing his freedom from the alleged confinement.
Details of Captivity and Rescue Emerge
In a prepared statement issued Tuesday, “S,” a 32-year-old Connecticut resident, recounted his ordeal. “I was held prisoner in my home from the time I was taken out of the fourth grade at age 11 until two months ago at age 31, when I purposely set the fire that helped set me free,” he stated. The Waterbury Police Department has verified that this statement originates from the individual rescued earlier this year in Waterbury.
Man Chooses Identity, Starts New Chapter
The man further clarified that “S” is not his birth name but a chosen identifier, marking “the first of many choices” he is now empowered to make in his newfound freedom. According to reports, “S” informed responding authorities in Waterbury on February 17th that he deliberately ignited a fire within his room. Emergency responders subsequently extricated him from the Blake Street residence.
Stepmother Faces Charges, Pleads Not Guilty
Kimberly Sullivan, 56, the stepmother, has been formally charged with first-degree assault and second-degree kidnapping in connection to the alleged captivity. Sullivan has entered a plea of not guilty to these charges. As of Tuesday, legal counsel representing Ms. Sullivan had not issued any public response to requests for comments regarding the case.
Survivor Seeks Justice and Privacy
“S” conveyed in his statement that his decision to speak publicly stems from a desire to take control of his narrative and begin the process of reclaiming his life. He acknowledged the existing public discourse surrounding his case, stating, “Much has already been said that tells part of the story of the abuse I endured. Someday, perhaps my whole story will be told.”
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Recovery and Gratitude Expressed
Providing an update on his well-being, “S” indicated significant improvement since his rescue, stating he is “much better and stronger.” In a poignant note of reclaiming normalcy, he shared that he recently celebrated his 32nd birthday with his “first ever birthday party.”
Call for Cooperation and Respect
Concluding his statement, “S” urged cooperation with law enforcement. “I ask everyone involved in my story to fully cooperate with the authorities who are helping me seek justice for these crimes,” he stated. He also appealed for privacy, requesting, “I also ask the public and the media to respect those investigations and my privacy as this process plays out. This isn’t just a story. It’s my life.”