Children trapped inside for four years over COVID anxiety rescued by Spanish police

In Oviedo, a troubling case has come to light involving three young brothers—eight-year-old twins and their ten-year-old sibling—who were reportedly kept inside their home without stepping outside for almost four years. Spanish authorities rescued the boys this week, marking the first time they had been outdoors since December 2021.

The parents, identified as 53-year-old Christian Steffen from Germany and 48-year-old Melissa Ann Steffen from the United States, were arrested. Police allege the couple isolated their children due to an intense fear of COVID-19. If convicted, they could each face up to seven years in prison.

According to DW, when the children were brought out into the garden, they were overwhelmed—hyperventilating, laying on the grass, and marveling at the sensation of touching it. One officer told El Mundo that the boys were frightened, and their reaction to seeing something as simple as a snail was one of astonishment.

El Español reported that the couple had initially requested permission from German authorities to homeschool their children during the pandemic. When warned that social services might intervene, they allegedly relocated to Spain.

For four years, the family lived in a rented home in Toleo, a quiet neighborhood in Asturias. Police described the interior as filthy and chaotic, with piles of garbage, pet waste, used sanitary products, and children still sleeping in cribs while wearing diapers. Images from the home showed unsettling monster drawings on the children’s beds.

Authorities said the boys were found dirty and severely socially withdrawn, though not undernourished. A medical evaluation revealed that they suffered from serious constipation due to strict toilet schedules; they were only allowed to relieve themselves at designated times and wore diapers at other times.

Police visited the home on April 14, during a widespread power outage across Spain. The father appeared disheveled and barefoot, refused to let officers in at first, and insisted they wear face masks. Once inside, the children were found wearing three masks each. Investigators also discovered large amounts of ADHD medication and cannabis-derived drugs, reportedly obtained illegally. It remains unclear if the children had ever been officially diagnosed with ADHD.

Understanding COVID Anxiety Syndrome (CAS)
COVID Anxiety Syndrome is a mental health condition where people continue to experience intense fear and anxiety about COVID-19, even when the immediate threat has reduced. This syndrome often involves persistent behaviors such as repeatedly checking for symptoms, avoiding public places, and excessive cleaning—all fueled by a deep fear of infection. These compulsive actions can significantly disrupt everyday life.

[TOI inputs]