Utah boarding school where Paris Hilton alleged abuse as a teen loses its licence

July 8, 2026

Utah state regulators have revoked the license of Provo Canyon School's Springville campus, a psychiatric residential treatment center for teenage girls, citing serious violations including improper use of restraints, aggressive physical contact, and neglect dating back to 2025. Paris Hilton, who attended the facility in the 1990s and has become a prominent advocate against the troubled teen industry, publicly supported the closure and stated the school failed children in its care. The facility must cease all operations by August 6th, though school officials are considering appealing the decision within their 15-day window.

Who is affected

Current students at Provo Canyon School's Springville girls' campus (ages 12-18)
Current students at the boys' campus in Provo, Utah
Paris Hilton and other former residents who experienced abuse at the facility
Families of students enrolled at both campuses
Staff members at Provo Canyon School
Utah Department of Health and Human Services regulators

What action is being taken

Utah state regulators are revoking the residential treatment license for the Springville campus
All services at the girls' campus must be terminated by August 6th
The boys' campus is operating under temporary restrictions and is not permitted to accept new admissions
School officials are evaluating legal and administrative options, including filing an appeal

Why it matters

This closure represents a significant accountability moment for the troubled teen industry, which has faced allegations of abuse for decades. The revocation validates the experiences of survivors like Paris Hilton who have spoken out about systematic abuse, neglect, and trauma at such facilities. The decision demonstrates that state regulators can hold powerful institutions accountable when they fail to provide safe care, potentially setting a precedent for increased oversight of similar residential treatment centers nationwide. It also highlights the importance of survivor advocacy in prompting regulatory action and protecting vulnerable youth.

What's next

The school must terminate all services at the Springville campus by August 6th
The school has 15 days from receiving the notice to challenge the decision through an appeal
School officials are evaluating all available legal and administrative options, including filing an appeal

Read full article from source: BBC