Utah has revoked the license of a controversial boarding school for troubled teens following years of abuse allegations and a high-profile campaign by Paris Hilton, state officials announced Wednesday.
State action against Provo Canyon School
The Utah Department of Human Services confirmed it had revoked the license of Provo Canyon School, a facility that has faced numerous lawsuits and investigations over allegations of physical, emotional and sexual abuse of students. The school, which operates as a residential treatment center, was given 30 days to cease operations.
Paris Hilton, who attended the school as a teenager, has been a vocal critic of the facility and the broader "troubled teen industry." She testified before Congress and lobbied state officials to shut down the school, which she described as a place where she endured trauma.
According to the department, the license revocation was based on "multiple, serious violations" of state regulations, including failure to provide adequate staffing, proper supervision and appropriate therapeutic care. The school has the right to appeal the decision.
Allegations and investigations
Former students have described a culture of abuse at Provo Canyon School, including isolation, forced medication and physical restraint. A 2020 investigation by the Utah Department of Human Services found that the school had failed to report incidents of abuse and had used unlicensed staff.
"This is a victory for survivors everywhere," Hilton said in a statement. "No child should ever have to go through what I and so many others experienced at that place. I am grateful to the state for taking action."
The school's parent company, Universal Health Services, said in a statement that it was "disappointed" by the decision and that it had worked to improve conditions. "We remain committed to providing quality care and will explore all legal options," the statement added.
Broader impact on troubled teen industry
The revocation marks a significant step in the ongoing scrutiny of the troubled teen industry, which includes boot camps, wilderness programs and residential treatment centers. Advocates have called for stricter federal oversight, arguing that many facilities operate with little regulation and have a history of abuse.
Hilton has used her platform to push for legislative changes, including the Accountability for Congregate Care Act, which would establish federal standards for such facilities. The bill has stalled in Congress but has gained renewed attention after the Utah decision.
"This should send a message to every facility that thinks they can get away with abusing children," said Alexia Parks, a former student and advocate. "We will not stop until every dangerous school is shut down."
