Austrian Man That Kidnapped Daughter

I'm sure I'm not the only one who's been following this sick story. I'm just horrified to read this morning that he faces 15 years in jail if convicted of rape. No mention of kidnapping, repeated rape, incest, and what on earth do you call keeping 3 children in a basement for their entire lives? He'll probably be dead in 15 years - he's 73 - but that's too good for him.

[Sheherezade]

Re: Austrian Man That Kidnapped Daughter

Yep. I believe I mentioned public execution at the breakfast table yesterday when I read this story. And the wife??? How can you NOT know that your husband has kidnapped your daughter and locked her up in a secret apartment in the basement? Or has that element of the story changed? Sad, sad, sad.

[moonlight]

Re: Austrian Man That Kidnapped Daughter

It's all over the news here in the UK. The news has been interviewing people there in the city. Some are calling for the neighbors to be at fault because they never paid close enough attention. People are beyond outraged.

Re: Austrian Man That Kidnapped Daughter


I think Angie's suggestion is best. Unbelievable. Either his wife has diminished mental capacity or she had to know something of this. Wouldn't she wonder after the second baby appears on the doorstep with a note attached?

[DCJenn]

Re: Austrian Man That Kidnapped Daughter

Apparently, according to the AP report I read, the man is an abusive crazy guy and everyone feared him. (within the family)

What is with the Austrians and keeping girls in their basements?

Jenn

[alison]

Re: Austrian Man That Kidnapped Daughter

What is with the Austrians and keeping girls in their basements?

Jenn

They might want to check out the Governors mansion in CA.

Sorry, I just couldn't resist.

I'm thinking the hiding-in-the-basement-tendency may have to do with
the fact that in Germany (and I assume Austria) keeps good track of their citizens. You have to be registered at all times in your town hall. When you move to a new place, you register. When you move out, you unregister. You always have to carry an ID card on you and produce it when asked. (They also have driver's licenses, like we do, but come on, some people don't change over to a new state license for months! Not a good way to keep track of people.)

The authorities know where you are at all times. It is much MUCH more difficult to go missing in Europe and still lead an anonymous life.

Re: Austrian Man That Kidnapped Daughter

Good point, Jenn. Someone who is capable of kidnapping and locking his daughter in the basement probably has a pretty controlling and abusive relationship with his wife and upstairs kids. What a freak.

[migirl]

Re: Austrian Man That Kidnapped Daughter

Absolutely horrifying and so bizarre.

DH said yesterday, "I hope they kill that guy".