Lawsuit claims staff at former St. George youth center abused, impregnated teenage girls

Date: 06/10/2025

Facilities mentioned: Red Rock Canyon School

Source: KUTV

Author: Liv Kelleher

Trigger warnings: sexual assault, pregnancy

Summary: A civil lawsuit has been filed against the now-closed Red Rock Canyon School and its parent company, Sequel Youth and Family Services, by a former student identified as P.R. The lawsuit alleges that P.R. was sexually abused and impregnated by a staff member, Atonio Kavea, while a minor, with the knowledge and alleged facilitation of other school personnel, including Kavea’s sister, Asiah Kavea. It further claims that the school attempted to conceal the abuse and remove P.R. to limit liability, rather than protect her. The case highlights broader concerns regarding oversight and accountability within the “troubled teen” industry in Utah, referencing previous closures, investigations, and new legislation aimed at increasing protections for youth in these facilities. The lawsuit seeks over $10 million in damages for the physical and emotional trauma suffered by P.R., while also aiming to hold the organizations financially responsible to prevent future harm.