Provo Canyon School, a girls' boarding school in Utah where socialite Paris Hilton alleged she was abused as a teenager, has had its licence revoked by state regulators. This decision was announced on July 8, 2026, due to multiple noncompliance issues, including unnecessary restraint and neglect.
According to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the school failed to provide adequate health and safety services for its clients. As a result, all services at the Springville campus must cease by August 6, 2026. The facility has 15 days to appeal this decision.
Paris Hilton's Advocacy Against Provo Canyon School
Hilton, who has been vocal about her traumatic experiences at the school during the 1990s, stated, "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." She has campaigned for the school’s closure and testified before Congress about her experiences.
During her time at the school, Hilton claims she was subjected to physical assault, forced medication, and solitary confinement. "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," she added.
Reactions from Provo Canyon School Officials
In response to the licence revocation, school officials stated they are evaluating all available legal and administrative options, including an appeal. They emphasized their commitment to providing safe and quality care for adolescents and their families.
"As this is an ongoing matter, we are limited in what we can say at this time. Our priority remains providing safe, high-quality care and support for adolescents and their families, and we remain committed to serving those in need," the school said.
Concerns Over Safety and Accountability
The decision to revoke the licence follows numerous complaints from former residents and ongoing scrutiny from health officials. In June, temporary restrictions were also imposed on the school's boys' campus in Provo, which is currently not accepting new admissions.
Health officials reported that staff failed to protect a boy during an altercation and did not seek immediate medical care for his injuries. The situation raises serious concerns about the safety of the children in these facilities.
- Provo Canyon School's licence revoked on July 8, 2026
- All services must end by August 6, 2026
- 15 days to appeal the decision
- Paris Hilton alleges abuse during her stay in the 1990s
- School officials considering legal options
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by BBC World. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
