A woman in Waterbury was arrested Wednesday after an investigation led by police and the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office determined she held her stepson captive for more than 20 years in her home.

Police said they were called after a fire in the Blake Street home of Kimberly Sullivan in February.

Officers said a 32-year-old man told them he had intentionally set the fire in his upstairs room, stating he wanted “freedom.”

The man also told them he had been held captive by Sullivan since he was approximately 11 years old.

Officials said he had endured prolonged abuse, starvation, severe neglect and inhumane treatment.

During the investigation, it was also discovered that he had been provided with only minimal amounts of food and water, which led to his extremely malnourished condition, according to police.

“The suffering this victim endured for over 20 years is both heartbreaking and unimaginable,” Waterbury Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo said. “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.”

Sullivan is being held on a $300,000 bond and was charged with assault in the first degree, kidnapping in the second degree, unlawful restraint in the first degree, cruelty to persons and reckless endangerment in the first degree.