In brief
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services has cancelled the residential‑treatment licence of Provo Canyon School’s Springville campus, citing repeated reports of unnecessary restraint, aggressive contact and neglect that date back to 2025. Paris Hilton – who spent nearly a year in the facility in the 1990s – had previously testified before Congress about her experience and called for the school’s closure. The school says it will appeal the decision and notes it remains committed to providing safe care for adolescents. State officials also have restricted admissions at the boys’ campus in Provo, highlighting the broader concerns over treatment centres in the state.
Paris Hilton’s testimony sparks regulatory action
Utah regulators have revoked the residential‑treatment licence of Provo Canyon School’s Springville campus after repeated complaints of abuse, neglect and aggressive restraint documented in investigations since 2025.
Paris Hilton, 45, who spent almost a year in the school during the 1990s, said in a statement to the BBC: "For more than fifty years, children came forward with stories of abuse, neglect, and trauma. Today, the state confirmed what survivors have known all along: Provo Canyon School failed the children in its care. I was one of those children. I know what it feels like to cry for help and believe no-one is coming. Today, children still inside that facility know someone is finally coming to protect them."
The school’s website describes the facility as an intensive psychiatric youth residential treatment centre for girls aged 12 to 18. In response to the revocation, the school has said it will consider an appeal, noting that it has been working to provide safe, high‑quality care for its residents.
In June, state officials imposed temporary restrictions on the boys’ campus in Provo, citing an incident where staff failed to protect a boy during a fight and did not seek immediate medical care for his injuries. The boys’ campus continues to serve existing residents, but new admissions are prohibited.
The case highlights growing concern over the so‑called "tough love" industry, with former residents and advocates calling for stricter oversight and reform. The school’s licence must be terminated by 6 August, giving it 15 days to challenge the decision.
