French Father Held After 7-Year-Old Son Found Hidden in Van for Years
A French police car blocks a street in Grasse, March 16, 2017. (Philippe Farjon/Archives Associated Press)
Authorities were alerted on Monday by a neighbour who reported hearing “child-like noises” coming from a van in the village of Hagenbach, Alsace, near the Swiss and German borders, according to a statement released Saturday by prosecutor Nicolas Heitz. After forcibly opening the van, officers discovered a child “lying in the fetal position, naked, covered with a blanket, on a pile of garbage and near excrement,” the statement detailed.
The child was clearly suffering from malnutrition and unable to walk, having been forced to sit for extended periods. The boy’s father claimed to investigators that he placed the child in the van in November 2024 “to protect him,” alleging his partner wanted to send the boy to a psychiatric hospital. The boy was 7 years old at the time.
No Prior Psychiatric Concerns
Prosecutor Heitz stated there were no medical records indicating the boy had any psychiatric issues before his disappearance, and he had consistently achieved good grades in school. The child recounted to investigators that he experienced “great difficulties” with his father’s partner and believed his father “had no other choice” but to confine him. He also stated he hadn’t bathed since 2024.
Charges and Investigation
The father has been charged with kidnapping and other offenses and is currently in pre-trial detention. His partner denies any knowledge of the boy being in the van. She has been charged with failing to assist a child in danger and released under judicial supervision. The boy’s 12-year-old sister and the partner’s 10-year-old daughter have been placed in the care of social services.
The prosecutor’s office is investigating whether other individuals were aware of the boy’s situation. Friends and family members told investigators they believed the boy was in a psychiatric facility. His teachers were informed he had been transferred to another school, according to the prosecutor.
Community Shock
Authorities have not released the names of the victim or his family members. Residents of the village, contacted by the Associated Press, expressed shock over the incident and stated they were unaware of the boy’s whereabouts, declining to discuss details. The prosecutor declined to provide further comments to the AP pending a more thorough investigation. This case highlights the importance of vigilance and reporting any concerns regarding child welfare. UNICEF provides resources and information on protecting children from harm.
This disturbing case serves as a stark reminder of the hidden struggles some children face and the need for continued support and awareness regarding child safety and well-being.
