Connecticut Stepmother Arrested After 32-Year-Old Stepsons Escape Reveals 20-Year Imprisonment and Severe Abuse

Waterbury woman charged with severe abuse after stepson escapes 20-year captivity through house fire.

Waterbury, CT

A woman in Waterbury, Connecticut, has been arrested and charged with brutally abusing and imprisoning her stepson for more than two decades, following a tragic incident in which the victim deliberately set fire to their home in a desperate attempt to escape.

On February 17, firefighters responded to a blaze at a home located on the 100 block of Blake Street in Waterbury. Inside, they discovered a severely emaciated 32-year-old man weighing only 68 pounds, who was identified as the stepson of 54-year-old Tierra Christy. Court records indicate the man had been imprisoned inside the home for over two decades, subjected to starvation, neglect, and extreme abuse.

Investigators revealed disturbing details of the abuse the victim faced, alleging he endured physical mistreatment, was denied medical and dental care, and faced isolation from the outside world. According to his statements, the abuse began around age 12, when he was forced out of school. Records also revealed that during his childhood, the victim survived by scavenging for food from trash cans and drinking water from bottles in his room.

Prosecutors described how Christy allegedly imprisoned the victim, denying him proper care and nutrition for over two decades. The situation came to light when the victim intentionally set fire to his room using printer paper, a lighter, and other household materials he found in a jacket belonging to his late biological father.

During the fire, the victim deliberately collapsed on the floor to ensure firefighters would rescue him, believing this was his only chance at escape, according to court documents.

Following a thorough investigation involving Waterbury police and prosecutors, Christy was charged with first-degree assault, kidnapping, cruelty to persons, unlawful restraint, and reckless endangerment. She maintains her innocence through her attorney, who insists the allegations lack merit and claims there was ample food in the home and no imprisonment.

Neighbors expressed shock and distress, recalling glimpses of the victim as a child, but noting he had not been seen for many years prior to the rescue. The community is left grappling with the disturbing reality of the long-term abuse that remained hidden in plain sight.

Christy remains in custody without bail pending her next court appearance. Authorities continue their investigation as they build their case for justice.