The man who has been allegedly held captive in his Connecticut house for over 20 years says he’s “much stronger and better” than when first responders rescued him in February.
Officials say that the “severely emaciated,” 5-foot-9 man, weighed only 68 pounds at the time he was discovered in the Waterbury home on February 17th by the authorities responding to a call about an active fire. First responders were told that the man had set fire to his bedroom and claimed his stepmother held him hostage since he was 11.
“I am a victim of domestic abuse and captivity for more than 20 years. In his first public statement, he revealed that he had been imprisoned in his home for more than 20 years. He was a prisoner from the moment he was removed from fourth grade when I was 11 to two months ago when I was 31. I deliberately set the fire, which helped me escape. “I’m speaking out today to start the process of reclaiming and rewriting my story.”
David Guarino, a volunteer spokesperson for the organization Survivors Say, released a statement on Tuesday.
In the statement, the 32-year-old, whose identity has not yet been revealed, called himself “S”, saying that “this is not the birth name my parents gave me. I’m choosing a name for myself and will use it as I take back control of my life and future. My name is my decision, and the first in a series of choices that I will make now that I’m free.”
“S” expressed gratitude to first responders, law enforcement, and health care professionals who have helped and nurtured him.
He said, “I appreciated all your help and the opportunity to have my very first birthday party in celebration of turning 32.”
The Mayor also thanked the public for their prayers and contributions to a GoFundMe fundraising event organized by Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury. This fundraiser has raised almost $270,000. The money will be used for medical care, dental treatment, counseling, and therapy to help with physical and emotional recovery, as well as housing and daily expenses.
“It has been said that much of my abuse was already told. One day, maybe my entire story will be revealed,” S stated. “I ask all those involved in my story to cooperate fully with the authorities that are helping me find justice for these crimes. I ask that the public and the media to respect the investigations and my privacy during this process. This isn’t a simple story. It’s my whole life.”
Kimberly Sullivan was arrested. She faces multiple charges, including unlawful restraint, assault, kidnapping, and reckless endangerment. She has pleaded not guilty.
Sullivan’s attorney defended his client, saying that the victim’s father was to blame.
He was not locked inside the room. She did not confine him in any manner. She provided food. Her lawyer, Ioannis Kalloidis, said that she was “blown away” by the allegations.