French Authorities Rescue 9-Year-Old Boy Confined in Van for Over a Year

A 9-year-old boy was rescued this week from his father's utility van in Hagenbach, eastern France, where he had been confined since November 2024. Police, responding to a neighbor's report of child noises from the vehicle, discovered the boy lying naked in a fetal position atop trash and near excrement. He was malnourished and unable to walk due to prolonged immobility.

The father, 43, claimed he confined the boy to protect him from his partner's intent to send him to a psychiatric hospital. Authorities found no medical records indicating psychiatric issues; the boy had previously performed well in school. He reported significant difficulties with his father's partner and believed his father had no alternative but to lock him up. He also stated he hadn't showered since 2024.

The father faces preliminary charges, including kidnapping, and remains in custody. His 37-year-old partner, who denies knowledge of the confinement, faces charges for failing to assist a minor in danger and has been released under judicial supervision. The boy's 12-year-old sister and the partner's 10-year-old daughter have been placed in social services' care.

Investigations are ongoing to determine if others were aware of the boy's situation. Friends and family believed he was in a psychiatric institution, while teachers were informed he had transferred schools. The identities of those involved have not been disclosed.