Mother of Connecticut Escapee Speaks Out Against Bail for Accused Stepmother

The biological mother of a man who reportedly endured 20 years of captivity at the hands of his stepmother has criticized the release on bail of the accused woman. In an emotional interview with Fox News Digital, Tracy Vallerand expressed her outrage after her son, who recently escaped from a life of abuse, was left vulnerable by the lenience of the legal system.

Vallerand, who lost custody of her son when he was just six months old, did not hold back in her assessment of Kimberly Sullivan, the woman accused of holding him hostage. She labeled Sullivan as the “lowest of the low,” emphasizing the severity of the situation.

Using stark language, Vallerand indicated her disdain for Sullivan, stating that she prefers to refer to her as “it” rather than recognize her as a human. Vallerand strongly believes that Sullivan poses a flight risk and should never have been granted bail.

Sullivan, who was arrested on March 12, was released from jail after posting a $300,000 bond. Under the terms of her release, she must wear a GPS ankle monitor. However, her attorney, Ioannis Kaloidis, has recently filed a motion to have this monitor requirement removed.

“He needs justice, and he needs to know that people are here for him,” Vallerand said regarding her son. She stressed the importance of him reclaiming his life at the age of 32. “My God, he’s 32, and he needs to learn to live his life. That is sad on so many different levels.”

Vallerand shared her concerns not only about Sullivan but also about Kaloidis, expressing her disapproval of the representation Sullivan is receiving. She remarked, “He’s doing a good job for her, but he’s literally at the bottom of the barrel with the clientele that he has.” Vallerand added that it is disheartening for her to witness such a low caliber of representation, stating, “I wouldn’t be able to close my eyes at night doing that.”

Details of the Horrific Conditions

Reports reveal that Sullivan is accused of confining her stepson—Vallerand’s biological son—in a grim, windowless storage closet for two decades. Described as measuring just eight feet by nine feet, the space lacked both heating and air conditioning. The absence of basic necessities like a bathroom made this captivity even more distressing.

Within this closet, the victim was allegedly locked away for 22 to 24 hours a day, receiving minimal food and water. He weighed only 68 pounds at the time of his rescue, which occurred after he set fire to the home on February 27 as a desperate attempt to escape.

In March, Sullivan faced several serious charges, including first-degree assault, second-degree kidnapping, unlawful restraint, cruelty to persons, and reckless endangerment.

A Fractured Relationship

Vallerand has expressed her sorrow over her fractured relationship with her son. Throughout his childhood, she made numerous attempts to reconnect, but his father, Kregg Sullivan, consistently prevented those efforts. Tragically, Kregg passed away last year, leaving Vallerand with unresolved feelings.

After her son turned 18, Vallerand sought him out online, hoping to bridge the gap that had formed over the years. However, her search yielded no results, which fueled her anxiety about his well-being. “Well, I mean, things that go through your head where you can’t find somebody who’s an adult, especially nowadays on social media, it’s very rare that you would actually find zero carbon footprints,” she lamented.

Sadly, she suspected that her son’s lack of digital presence might be a reflection of his father’s own technological limitations, who was not adept with technology.

Denial of Allegations

In response to the allegations against her client, Kaloidis has previously asserted Sullivan’s innocence. “This has been an extreme shock to her,” he stated, attempting to present Sullivan as an ordinary individual who did not harm or imprison her stepson.

Kaloidis declined to provide further comments through a spokesperson, maintaining his defense of Sullivan amid the growing public outrage.

A Voice Emerges from the Shadows

In a recent development, Sullivan’s stepson, who has chosen to remain anonymous and go by the name “S,” spoke out for the first time. “I am much better and stronger than I was the day the first responders carried me out of my home,” he shared in a heartfelt statement. “I am beyond grateful for the care I have received since then.”

His gratitude extended to the healthcare professionals who have offered their support, as well as to the first responders and law enforcement personnel working diligently to bring his abuser to justice.

“Much has already been said that tells part of the story of the abuse I endured,” he noted thoughtfully. “Someday, perhaps my whole story will be told.”

He also urged those involved in his case to cooperate with authorities and emphasized the importance of respecting his privacy during this challenging time. “This isn’t just a story. It’s my life.”

Looking Toward Justice

The emotional turmoil surrounding this case highlights the urgent need for justice and accountability. As Vallerand fights for her son’s recognition and freedom, the community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that serves justice for his harrowing experience.

The journey toward healing begins with the acknowledgment of abuse, and both Vallerand and her son advocate for the justice that has long been overdue.