A Maryland couple allegedly locked their autistic twin sons in the basement, The Associated Press reports.

John and Janice Land were charged Friday with two counts each of vulnerable adult abuse and false imprisonment, The AP adds. They have since been released on bond.

Citing court records, The Washington Post reports that the authorities found the twins by accident. Authorities went to the home to serve an unrelated search warrant and discovered an externally locked room in the basement. They discovered the two victims inside the room.

John allegedly told authorities that he locked the twins in the basement from 10 p.m. to 4:45 a.m. out of fear that they would run away, The Post adds.

Citing police, FOX43.com reports that there was an intense urine odor, no light source and no furniture in the basement.

Earlier this month, it was revealed that a California couple had been placing their 11-year-old autistic son in a dog cage.

There are many websites that offer resources and advice for parents dealing with a child who has autism.