A judge in Waterbury, Connecticut, has granted a motion that allows Kimberly Sullivan, accused of holding her stepson captive, to access crucial legal information. This includes her stepson’s alias, address, and medical records. Sullivan’s attorney stated that the court recognizes her constitutional right to this information.
Background of the Case
Kimberly Sullivan was arrested in March following allegations that she kidnapped and abused her stepson over a span of more than two decades. She is currently out on bond, which totals $300,000, and has pleaded not guilty to the charges, including kidnapping and assault.
Recent Court Proceedings
The recent court proceedings involved Sullivan’s request for information pertinent to her defense. The judge’s decision underscored the procedural norms in criminal cases, according to her attorney, Ioannis Kaloidis. Kaloidis emphasized that the ruling to grant access to the stepson’s alias and address was logical and aligned with constitutional rights.
Details of the Allegations
The stepson, now 32, has reported that he intentionally set a fire on February 17 in an effort to escape the confines of his locked room after years of captivity. Court documents reveal that he was found severely malnourished, weighing only 68 pounds at a height of 5 feet 9 inches. He described prolonged abuse, starvation, and neglect at the hands of his stepmother.
Victim’s Concerns and Legal Tensions
- The stepson testified that he felt terrified of Sullivan.
- Authorities described his escape as a desperate bid for freedom after being locked away for two decades.
- Prosecutors equated his situation to a domestic violence victim seeking protection, emphasizing the need to safeguard the victim’s identity.
Despite Sullivan’s attorneys requesting access to her stepson’s medical records, the state indicated it would allow this under specific conditions — mainly that the victim’s alias and address remain undisclosed to her. The state argued that revealing such information could jeopardize the victim’s mental health and safety.
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
In Friday’s hearing, the judge allowed the medical records to be reviewed only in the defense’s office, ensuring confidentiality regarding the stepson’s identity. However, she denied a previous motion from Sullivan’s attorneys to remove her GPS tracker, indicating that the matter could be reviewed in future proceedings.
The next court hearing is scheduled for December 19, where further developments in this high-profile case will unfold.
