SALT LAKE CITY – In a significant move for youth safety, Utah has revoked the license of the Provo Canyon School, a facility where Paris Hilton has publicly shared experiences of abuse during her time as a teenager. This decision marks a major victory for Hilton, who has campaigned for years to have the school shut down.
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services revealed that the school had multiple violations, including failing to protect students from harm and employing cruel practices. These findings were highlighted in a recent report that detailed over a dozen citations against the school.
“No child should be hurt in a program that is meant to protect them; particularly programs that require the authorization of the state to operate,” said Shannon Thoman-Black, who oversees licensing at the department.
Earlier in the month, the state had already revoked the license for another campus of Provo Canyon School, citing failures to provide necessary health and safety services. This consistent pattern of neglect has raised serious concerns about the facility’s operations.
Hilton expressed her relief following the announcement, stating that she feels a sense of “peace.” She emphasized that this marks the end of a painful chapter filled with abuse and trauma for many who attended the school.
“This horrific chapter of abuse, neglect, and trauma has finally come to an end,” Hilton remarked. The school, which caters to youth aged 12 to 18, has been ordered to cease operations by August 15. During this time, state officials will monitor the facility closely.
Staci Bradley, the director of business development for the school, expressed disagreement with the state’s decision and indicated that they are considering legal options, including an appeal. The facility has 15 days to request a hearing regarding the decision.
Hilton has previously alleged that staff members at the school subjected her to physical abuse, invasive monitoring, forced medication, and isolation. She stated, “Today means no child will ever have to endure what we did at Provo Canyon School again.”
In her efforts to advocate for change, Hilton has shared her story in various legislative sessions across the U.S., supporting laws designed to protect teens in Utah and beyond. She has played a crucial role in raising awareness about the troubled teen industry, which encompasses a network of private facilities for youth with behavioral challenges.
In June, Hilton even returned to the school to support families filing lawsuits against the institution for mistreatment. The Provo Canyon School is now under new ownership, but they have stated that they cannot comment on past practices, including those from Hilton’s time there.
