Paris Hilton is calling it a long-awaited victory after Utah officials revoked the license of the Springville campus of Provo Canyon School, where she has alleged she suffered abuse as a teenager.
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services announced the decision after determining the facility failed to meet health and safety standards and demonstrated a pattern of noncompliance. Under the order, the campus must stop accepting new students immediately and cease operations by August 6.
Hilton Says Survivors Have Finally Been Heard
Reacting to the decision, Hilton said she felt “so validated” after years of publicly sharing her experience. She described the license revocation as a victory not only for herself, but for the many former students who have spoken out about alleged abuse and neglect at the facility.
View this post on Instagram
Hilton has consistently alleged that she endured verbal, emotional, and physical abuse during the 11 months she spent at the school as a teenager. She has said she hopes the state’s action will help protect other young people from experiencing similar treatment.
Years of Allegations and State Investigations
According to state officials, the decision followed multiple investigations that identified concerns involving client safety, staffing, and regulatory compliance. Recent enforcement actions also included emergency sanctions related to allegations involving delayed medical care for students.
The latest licensing action is based on current regulatory findings and is separate from Hilton’s personal allegations, many of which relate to a period before the school’s current ownership took over in 2000.
School Previously Denied Abuse Claims
Following the release of Hilton’s 2020 documentary, This Is Paris, Provo Canyon School said it could not comment on operations before its current ownership. The facility has also stated that it does not condone abuse, reports suspected incidents to authorities as required by law, and does not use solitary confinement or medication as punishment.
Hilton has continued advocating for stronger oversight of youth residential treatment programs, appearing before lawmakers and supporting legislation aimed at increasing accountability within the industry. Her advocacy has helped bring renewed attention to the experiences of former residents across the United States.
