RCR, a therapeutic treatment center for girls with behavior problems, has come under scrutiny following shocking revelations from former residents. Situated in St George, Utah, RCR is part of a broader network of "troubled teen" facilities in the United States, housing between 120,000 and 200,000 young people. The institution has faced allegations of abusive practices, including forced labor and inappropriate staff conduct, raising questions about the lack of national regulation governing such facilities.
At RCR, girls reportedly endure harsh conditions, including long hours spent renovating the facility in extreme heat. Former residents have accused staff of engaging in sexually inappropriate behavior. Siobhan Kelly Fogarty recalls being physically restrained and forced to lie wrapped in a sheet on the floor for eight hours.
"It's like a prison sentence, but you didn't commit a crime." – Cassia
The absence of national regulation for facilities like RCR means that laws differ from state to state, often leaving residents vulnerable. This lack of oversight has allowed troubling practices to persist unchecked.
In 2010, Ashley Ciciliano was released after spending several months at RCR. Her experience left a lasting impact, compelling her to return in June 2012 with her friend Cindy, embarking on a 15-hour drive from Washington. During her stay, Ashley formed a close bond with Cassia Cilento, another resident who also experienced the facility's harsh realities.
"I knew she was very special the second I saw her." – Ashley Ciciliano
Cassia's time at RCR was tumultuous. She spent months oscillating between home and the facility. Upon arrival, she was instructed to change into an orange T-shirt, grey sweatpants, and flip-flops—an unsettling initiation into the regimented environment.
"You're not staff. You don't need to follow me." – Cassia
The atmosphere at RCR has been likened to a prison by those who have been through its doors. Sophie Olsen recounts being treated like livestock, with residents herded around like sheep and often ignored by staff when in need.
"We were herded around like a bunch of sheep." – Sophie Olsen
"If we had to use the bathroom, they could just ignore our hand for as long as they wanted." – Sophie Olsen
"It's just complete denial of any sort of humanity." – Sophie Olsen
The emotional scars run deep for many former residents. Delaney attributes her trust issues to her time at RCR, while Siobhan highlights the fear among LGBTQ+ residents about expressing their identities.
"To this day, I have no doubt my trust issues come from this." – Delaney
"The people that were gay or bi or whatever were very afraid to express that." – Siobhan
Despite these disturbing accounts, some defend the center's approach. An 18-year-old woman commented on the nature of the treatment provided.
"It's treatment. It's not supposed to be fun. It's not summer camp." – An 18-year-old woman