Waterbury, Conn./WTIC Radio - Police in Waterbury say a woman is under arrest for allegedly holding her stepson captive in their home for decades.
They say the now 32-year-old man intentionally set fire to the home in which he lived with Kimberly Sullivan, 56, on February 17.
It was while speaking to first responders that the man told them "I wanted my freedom."
He sustained smoke inhalation and other injuries.
The man indicated he'd been held in the home since he was 11-years-old.
Authorities say the victim had been held captive for over 20 years, enduring abuse, starvation and neglect.
He was emaciated and had not received medical or dental care in that time, police said.
Sullivan faces charges of assault, kidnapping, unlawful restraint, cruelty to persons, and reckless endangerment.
Waterbury Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo said “The suffering this victim endured for over 20 years is both heartbreaking and unimaginable. This case required relentless investigative effort, and I commend the dedication of our officers and the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office. Their unwavering commitment ensured that justice is served, and the perpetrator is held fully accountable for these horrific crimes.”