Stepmother Granted Access to Step-Son’s Information

WATERBURY, Conn. — A 57-year-old stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, is facing serious allegations of abusing her step-son by confining him for two decades. On Friday, she was awarded access to her step-son’s personal details, including his new name and medical information, as he continues to recover in a secure hospital.

During a hearing in Waterbury court, Sullivan’s legal team argued that these details were essential for building her defense, particularly given the claims that she kept her step-son locked in a shed for 22 hours a day starting when he was just 11 years old.

Judge Colin Klatt agreed that the defense needed this personal information for the case. However, he emphasized that Sullivan was prohibited from sharing this information with anyone besides her defense team, warning her about possible contempt charges if she did.

“You cannot discuss this with anyone else, no matter how close they are,” Klatt stated, highlighting the seriousness of the court’s order.

At the start of the hearing, prosecutor Don Tharkildsen expressed concerns about revealing the victim’s new alias and hospital location, noting that it was vital for his safety and mental health. He explained, “The victim is afraid of this defendant.” Allegedly, the young man was very close to death upon his escape after being locked away for so long and is currently in a facility for treatment and security.

Sullivan’s attorney, Ioannis Kalodis, countered by saying that the prosecution was unfairly withholding crucial information that would help make a robust defense. Kalodis asserted Sullivan’s right to confront her step-son in court, though a protection order currently restricts contact between them.

Kalodis argued that typically, once witness names and addresses are disclosed, that should suffice. He viewed the victim’s fear as inadequate grounds for withholding such necessary details, pointing out that Sullivan had no prior criminal record or history of violating orders.

Without access to this personal information, Kalodis said they wouldn’t be able to prepare properly for the case, emphasizing that it was his ethical responsibility to investigate and prepare adequately.

Judge Klatt acknowledged Sullivan’s clean record and also mentioned that her situation was being monitored by a bail board. He reiterated that she has a right to defend herself against the allegations, and knowing the basic personal information was essential for her defense.

He denied Sullivan’s request to remove her GPS ankle monitor, citing technical issues with it. Additionally, the stepson’s attorney argued that the victim should have a say in the terms surrounding Sullivan’s release, but Klatt pointed out that victims are only permitted to have input at certain phases of the legal process.

After being rescued by setting fire to Sullivan’s Waterbury home in February, the victim reported being extremely malnourished, weighing only 68 pounds. His rescue was a desperate act to gain freedom from alleged captivity.

The victim’s biological mother, Tracy Vallerand, accused Sullivan of attempting to manipulate circumstances so her son could confront her before the hearing. She expressed her deep concern over the request for her son’s information, stating, “You can’t have someone who is the bad guy near the people who are supposed to be protecting them.”

Vallerand had tried to reach her son but has yet to hear from him, wanting to give him the space he needs to heal.

Outside the court, Kalodis stood firm in Sullivan’s innocence, looking forward to the trial while maintaining that he would never risk his career by disclosing the alleged victim’s information.

Sullivan has been out on $300,000 bail since her arrest in March and has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including kidnapping and abuse. Her next court appearance is scheduled for December 19th.