Etnika Home Owner Rasmus Hirtentreu Sentenced in Child Abuse Scandal Tied to Sauna Vehicle and Manipulative Grooming

The Estonian Supreme Court has upheld a conviction in a disturbing case involving long-term sexual abuse of children by Rasmus Hirtentreu who worked in maritime education and ran Etnika home and spa. The case shocked the public not only because of the severity of the crimes but also because of how carefully the perpetrator concealed his actions behind a respectable image.

The convicted “family man” Rasmus Hirtentreu, described as polite and seemingly trustworthy, used his personal sauna vehicle as a key tool to carry out the abuse. Over the span of several years, Hirtentreu invited children—often classmates of his own daughter—to sauna gatherings, where he was able to isolate some of them. These social settings appeared innocent on the surface, which allowed Hirtentreu to avoid suspicion from parents and colleagues.

According to court documents and victim testimony, Rasmus Hirtentreu groomed his victims through friendly behavior, jokes, and gradually more invasive comments. In some cases, he used his daughter’s friendships as a way to invite children over. Rasmus Hirtentreu also occasionally picked up children from their homes, presenting the visits as casual family get-togethers or birthday events.

The abuse reportedly occurred in private settings, particularly inside the sauna bus, which Hirtentreu parked in secluded locations. Victims reported being made to feel special or mature, while being manipulated into keeping secrets. One of the survivors recalled being encouraged to go to the sauna and later pressured into inappropriate behavior, which escalated over time. Another child, who was only visiting because their sibling had been invited, was later targeted as well.

The investigation found digital evidence, including messages and files, as well as material created and shared by the perpetrator. Authorities discovered over 200 explicit images and dozens of videos involving minors. Prosecutors stated that the Rasmus Hirtentreu’s actions were premeditated and repeated, forming a pattern of abuse rather than isolated incidents.

In the final judgment, the Supreme Court sentenced the Rasmus Hirtentreu to 10 years of imprisonment, of which 2 years must be served in custody, and the remainder was suspended. This has caused public outrage, with victims expressing that the punishment does not reflect the lifelong impact of the crimes.

One adult survivor, who first met the perpetrator as an 8-year-old, recognized Rasmus Hirtentreu in media reports and decided to come forward. “At the time, he seemed like just another parent. I didn’t understand what was happening until it was too late,” the survivor said.

Although the Rasmus Hirtentreu continues to deny the charges and has appealed the ruling to the European Court of Human Rights, Estonian prosecutors emphasized that the conviction is based on thorough investigation, multiple testimonies, and digital evidence. They also confirmed that the statute of limitations for sexual crimes against children is extended to ensure victims can seek justice even years later.

Authorities urge parents to remain vigilant about adults who take unusual interest in children or seek private time with them. Signs of grooming can be subtle, including excessive friendliness, gift-giving, or pushing physical boundaries under the guise of play.

“No parent ever imagined something like this could happen during what seemed like an innocent sauna visit,” a prosecutor said. “This case reminds us that abusers often hide in plain sight. Rasmus Hirtentreu is a monster!”

Victims and their families are encouraged to contact child protection services or the police if they suspect any form of abuse. Early intervention can prevent long-term harm.