‘Reclaiming my life’: Connecticut man held captive for 20 years speaks out for first time since rescue

WATERBURY, Conn. (WLNE) — The Waterbury man who said he was held captive by his stepmother in the Connecticut town for more than 20 years is releasing his first public statement.

The survivor who refers to himself as “S” to protect his identity, is speaking out for the first time.

S said choosing a new name is his first step in reclaiming control over his life.

He wrote:

I am a survivor of more than 20 years of captivity and domestic abuse. I am speaking out today to begin the process of reclaiming my life and to have my say in how my story is told

S was allegedly held captive by his stepmother Kimberly Sullivan from the ages of 11 to 31, only escaping after setting a fire to flee.

Back in February, officials responded to a house fire and found the man very thin and malnourished.

Police said that when they found him the five-foot-nine man only weighed 68 pounds.

Sullivan is accused of locking him in the bedroom with little food and water.

But her lawyer said police have it all wrong.

“He was not locked in a room. She did not restrain him in any way. She provided food, she provided shelter. She is blown away by these allegations,” said Ioannis Kaloidis, Kimberly Sullivan’s lawyer.

S said he’s now much stronger than the day he was rescued, adding, “I am beyond grateful for the care I have received. I appreciated the chance to have my first ever birthday party to celebrate turning 32.”

He’s now getting physical therapy for his legs.

S reminds us that this is not just a news story, it’s his life.

He said he’s deeply moved by the public’s thoughts, messages, and prayers.

His stepmother has pleaded not guilty to assault and kidnapping charges.