Parent company profile

Sequel TSI

Also known as Sequel Youth & Family Services

Defunct 42 programs, 10 open

Sequel TSI is a parent company (defunct) based in Hunstville, AL. Kids Over Profits has records of 42 programs it has run in 17 states and countries, 10 of them open.

History

Year by year

From the records: the years it ran each program, and lawsuits and deaths on record from those years. A program it took over appears only once the records say when it did.

  1. 1999

    Founded

  2. 2001

    Began running: Woodward Academy

  3. 2003

    Began running: Normative Services Academy

  4. 2005

    Began running: Palm Beach Youth Academy

  5. 2006

    Began running: Northern Illinois Academy

  6. 2007

    Began running: Lakeside Academy

  7. 2009

    Began running 10 programs: Lexington Academy; Mountain Home Academy; Sequel TSI Madison; Sequel TSI North Carolina; Sequel TSI Sierra Vista; Sequel TSI Tuskegee; Union Juvenile Residential Facility; Norris Academy; Kissimmee Youth Academy; Sequel TSI Paint Rock Valley

    Opened 2 programs: Sequel TSI Kissimmee; Sequel TSI of North Carolina

  8. 2010

    Closed: Sequel TSI of North Carolina

  9. 2011

    Began running 3 programs: Kingston Academy; Riverside Academy; Rose Rock Academy

    Stopped running 3 programs: Sequel TSI North Carolina; Sequel TSI Sierra Vista; Sequel TSI Paint Rock Valley

  10. 2013

    Began running 3 programs: Capital Academy; Sequel Transition Academy; Sequel TSI Montgomery

    A death on record: Joseph Winters, 14, at Rose Rock Academy

  11. 2014

    Began running: Starr Albion Prep

  12. 2015

    Began running: St John's Youth Academy

7 more years

  1. 2016

    Began running 3 programs: Charles Britt Academy; Palm Beach Regional Juvenile Correctional Center; Sequel Pomegranate

    Opened: Sequel Pomegranate Health Systems

    Stopped running 2 programs: Rose Rock Academy; Kissimmee Youth Academy

    Closed: Sequel TSI Kissimmee

  2. 2017

    Began running 2 programs: Polk Youth Development Center; Pompano Youth Treatment Center

    Stopped running: Lexington Academy

  3. 2018

    Lawsuit filed: DURHAM v. CAPITAL ACADEMY et al 1:2018cv02045 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | Justia

  4. 2019

    Stopped running 4 programs: Kingston Academy; Riverside Academy; Sequel TSI Madison; Union Juvenile Residential Facility

  5. 2020

    A death on record: Cornelius Frederick, 16, at Lakeside Academy

    Stopped running 3 programs: Lakeside Academy; Mountain Home Academy; Starr Albion Prep

  6. 2021

    Lawsuit filed: Tenia Goshay, Personal Representative of the Estate of Cornelius Frederick v. Lakeside for Children d/b/a Lakeside Academy, et al.

    Stopped running 8 programs: Palm Beach Youth Academy; Capital Academy; Charles Britt Academy; Normative Services Academy; Northern Illinois Academy; Pompano Youth Treatment Center; Sequel Pomegranate; Norris Academy

    Closed: Sequel Pomegranate Health Systems

  7. 2022

    Lawsuit filed: J.P., as Father and Next Friend of G.P. v. Sequel TSI of Alabama, LLC, et al.

    Stopped running 4 programs: Sequel Transition Academy; Sequel TSI Montgomery; Sequel TSI Tuskegee; St John's Youth Academy

Programs it has run

42 on record, open ones first.

People

The people the network map ties to the company, with their other jobs in the industry.

  • Adam Shapiro

    cofounder

    Elsewhere in the industry

  • Jay Ripley

    founder

    Elsewhere in the industry

  • Cindy Cox

    co-owner

    Elsewhere in the industry

  • Dick Kelsey

    Owner of the Lakeside property in Kansas.,Former state legislator

  • Beverly Richard

    Senior Vice President, and formerly Three Springs, Inc

    Elsewhere in the industry

  • Chris Banken

    Senior Vice President Western Division Feb 2004-Present

  • Chris Perkins

    Vice President

  • Elizabeth Carey

    President and CEO of Starr Commonwealth

  • Jacqueline Gabler

    Vice President of Finance at Sequel

    Elsewhere in the industry

    • Vivant Behavioral Healthcare VP Finance

  • Jay Carroll

    CEO/President

  • John Stupak

    CEO, Exec VP & Chief Admin Officer 2007-2021

    Elsewhere in the industry

    • Joint Commission Currently Advisory Board Member, Behavioral Health Florida Juvenile Justice Association Bo

  • Michael E. Henderson

    CEO Torii Behavioral Health

    Elsewhere in the industry

  • Richard Block

    Vice President of Public Programs

    Elsewhere in the industry

  • Roy Day

    Vice President of HR

  • Tony Harper

    Vice President of Human Resources

    Elsewhere in the industry

  • Jason Cagle

    Chief Administrative Officer & CFO

    Elsewhere in the industry

    • Vivant Behavioral Healthcare EVP/CAO

  • Samantha Lee

    Chief Compliance & Ethics Officer

    Elsewhere in the industry

    • Vivant Behavioral Healthcare EVP, Chief Compliance & Ethics Officer

  • JJ Bond

    VP Marketing, Senior Director of Business Development 2006-2021

    Elsewhere in the industry

  • Jacob Brantz

    Corporate Controller & Liquidity Management Director at Sequel

    Elsewhere in the industry

    • Vivant Behavioral Healthcare CFO

  • Jason Katz

    Executive Director

    Elsewhere in the industry

  • Katie Arnold

    Sequel ABA Program Director (2021)

    Elsewhere in the industry

    • Vivant Behavioral Healthcare Vivant ABA Program Director (2021–2025)

  • Marianne Birmingham

    Senior Director of Compliance & Quality (2010-2021)

    Elsewhere in the industry

    • Vivant Behavioral Healthcare Compliance & Quality

  • Matt Sparling

    Director of Business Development, Marketing Rep at Sequel

    Elsewhere in the industry

    • Vivant Behavioral Healthcare SVP Strategy & Development

  • Samantha Dunham

    Director of Quality Assurance (2016-2021)

    Elsewhere in the industry

    • Vivant Behavioral Healthcare Program Development Analyst
18 other staff on record
  • Anita Cronin, Payroll Manager 2002-2021
  • Christine Aron, VP of Business Development at Sequel
  • Denise Deveaux, Controller (2013-2021)
  • Fred Beyer, Compliance and Quality Officer (2017-2024)
  • Jasmine Golden, Accounts Payable Specialist
  • Karen Hanson, therapist
  • Kendall Payne, Senior VP of Marketing
  • Kwanjalin Edwards, Sequel Controller (2018-2019)
  • Leslie Foster, HR Manager (2010-2023)
  • Marshanna McFarlin, Accounts Receivable Manager (2015-2017)
  • Mel Strobel, Sequel TSI (2019-2021)
  • Melissa Sutherland, Administration Supervisor (1999-2022)
  • Michele Price, Payroll Assistant (Aug 2016-Jul 2019), Assistant Payroll Manager (Jul 2019-Nov 2021)
  • Mike McFarland, VP of Operations 2009-2020
  • Nacole Seldon, Regional HR Manager (2019-2021)
  • Paula Pickens, Financial Controller
  • Thomas Locke, Controller (2017-2021)
  • Vito Guarnaccia, Consulting Psychologist (2014-2015)

News coverage

  • ‘Enough Is enough.’ Paris Hilton joins Alabama lawmakers in pushing for child safety reform Alabama Daily News | Mar 30, 2026 | general

    Alabama lawmakers and Paris Hilton are pushing for child safety reform after reports of abuse and neglect in residential facilities. The proposed reform aims to close oversight gaps and strengthen transparency and reporting. Several incidents of staff violence and abuse have been documented in facilities operated by Sequel Youth and Family Services and Camp SAYLA.

  • Northern Illinois Academy — Private School Demographics — ProPublica ProPublica | Jan 1, 2026 | closure About one of its programs

    Demographic data and historical records for Northern Illinois Academy, a special education private school in Aurora, Illinois, show enrollment figures and racial makeup from the 2019-20 school year. The facility was subsequently excluded from the Private School Survey in 2021-22 following reports of its closure.

  • ‘State-sponsored Abandonment’ No More: California Stops Paying for Adoptees Sent to Out-of-State Treatment Centers The Imprint | Jul 22, 2025 | closure About one of its programs

    California has ceased funding residential treatment placements for adopted foster youth in other states, closing what advocates termed a dangerous loophole. The decision follows revelations that hundreds of children were sent to facilities with histories of violations, including several since-shuttered programs. At least 676 adoptees were placed in out-of-state centers since 2020, with many attending problematic facilities. Among them were Sequel Youth and Family Services programs like Iowa’s Clarinda Academy and Utah’s Red Rock Canyon School, both closed after abuse scandals. Other placements included Utah’s Havenwood Academy, disciplined for improper restraints, and Cinnamon Hills Youth Crisis Center, sanctioned for excessive punishments. Three Points Ranch ceased operations in 2025 following violations, while White River Academy continues accepting California-funded youth under existing contracts.

  • Lawsuit claims staff at former St. George youth center abused, impregnated teenage girls KUTV | Jun 10, 2025 | lawsuit About one of its programs

    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.

  • Arizona lawmaker calls for investigation after ABC15 reports into facility for troubled teens ABC 15 Arizona | Apr 30, 2025 | lawsuit About one of its programs

    Survivor quoted: Melissa Catalano Arizona State Senator T.J. Shope is calling for an investigation into Mingus Mountain Academy after ABC15 uncovered allegations of widespread abuse. A lawsuit filed by 13 former residents includes claims of sexual assault by staff between 2011 and 2022. The facility has also been cited 40 times since 2022 for policy violations, including improper restraint. Mingus and its management company, Vivant Behavioral Healthcare, were also named in a 2024 U.S. Senate investigation into systemic abuse at youth facilities.

  • An Historical Overview of Utah's Wilderness Therapy Industry and Regulatory Oversight The Salt Lake Tribune | May 7, 2024 | expose About one of its programs

    This article examines the origins of the wilderness therapy industry in Utah, which traces back to practices influenced by Brigham Young University. The piece outlines how the sector expanded while facing ongoing reports of deaths, abuse allegations, and subsequent industry downsizing and increased state oversight.

  • Former Lakeside Academy workers sentenced to probation for teen's restraint death News Channel 3 | Dec 19, 2023 | event About one of its programs

    Two former staff members at Lakeside Academy were sentenced to probation after pleading no contest to involuntary manslaughter in the death of 16‑year‑old Cornelius Fredericks. The teen died after a 12‑minute restraint following an incident in the cafeteria. The case highlights concerns about restraint practices and oversight at the facility.

  • Over 20 students injured in riot at Red Rock Canyon School in St. George KJZZ | Oct 12, 2023 | event About one of its programs

    A riot at Red Rock Canyon School in St. George resulted in more than 20 students sustaining injuries. The incident involved students and staff, with several students requiring medical attention. Authorities responded to the disturbance and are investigating the circumstances.

  • Former Red Rock Canyon School staffer comes forward with abuse and neglect allegations ABC4 News | Oct 4, 2023 | expose About one of its programs

    The former Red Rock Canyon School in St. George, Utah, has publicly acknowledged allegations of abuse and neglect. Reports detail staff misconduct, safety violations, and conditions that led to harm among residents. The facility’s owners have issued statements addressing the claims.

  • Warning signs missed before teen's fatal restraint NBC News | Jul 12, 2023 | event About one of its programs

    The article reports that a teen named Cornelius Frederick died after being restrained in a facility. The report indicates that warning signs were missed and that the restraint may have contributed to the fatal outcome. The case highlights concerns about safety protocols in residential treatment settings.

  • Clarinda board renews Clarinda Academy agreement | News | kmaland.com kmaland.com | Jun 16, 2023 | general About one of its programs

    The Clarinda School Board renewed an agreement with the state of Iowa to continue using the facilities of the former Clarinda Academy, which closed in 2021. The district utilizes the gymnasium, athletic fields, and parking areas for school sports and community youth programs.

  • MDHHS speaks on changes following Lakeside Academy death | WOODTV.com WoodTV | May 10, 2023 | general About one of its programs

    The Wisconsin Department of Health and Human Services announced policy changes after the death of a teenager at Lakeside Academy. The changes aim to improve oversight and safety protocols for residential treatment facilities. The article reports on the state's response and planned reforms.

  • Lakeside Staffers Plead No Contest to Charges from Cornelius Fredericks’ Death The Imprint | May 3, 2023 | lawsuit About one of its programs

    Cornelius Fredericks, a 16‑year‑old foster youth, died after being restrained by staff at Lakeside Academy in Michigan. Two former staff members pleaded no contest to involuntary manslaughter, while a nurse was charged with child abuse for failing to provide care. The case highlights concerns about safety practices in for‑profit group care facilities.

  • Former workers enter plea in Lakeside Academy teen's death WWMT | Mar 16, 2023 | arrest About one of its programs

    Two former staff members at Lakeside Academy pleaded no contest to involuntary manslaughter in the death of 16‑year‑old Cornelius Fredericks, who died after a prolonged restraint by the staff. The plea follows a criminal investigation that found the restraint violated ordinary care and resulted in the teen’s death. The case is scheduled for sentencing in December.

  • Ocala courthouse: Plea deals reached for two men facing felony charges Ocala StarBanner | Feb 7, 2023 | general About one of its programs

    The article text is inaccessible due to a restricted access message on the publisher's website. Consequently, no factual details regarding the reported court proceedings or felony charges could be extracted.

  • State closes St Pete treatment facility for boys amid child abuse allegations Tampa Bay Times | Jun 24, 2022 | arrest About one of its programs

    Companies Mentioned: Sequel TSI of Florida, LLC Staff Mentioned: Pete Adolphus Battle, Andra Walters Two staff members assaulted a child at Charles Britt Academy on June 4, 2024 The staff members were arrested and charged with child abuse Florida Department of Juvenile Justice closed Charles Britt Academy after the arrests

  • fake shell of a company that John Ripley (Founder) used to buy out Sequel APM Reports | Apr 26, 2022 | expose About one of its programs

    Sequel Youth & Family Services, a former chain of residential treatment centers, has closed or sold most of its facilities following repeated allegations of staff misconduct, sexual misconduct, and safety violations. The company’s operations were scrutinized after a 2020 incident in which a 16‑year‑old boy died after being restrained by staff. In response, Sequel has transferred many centers to new ownership under Vivant Behavioral Healthcare and other entities while settling lawsuits with affected families.

  • Cushman: Utah Needs to Address Isolation of Teens in Utah Teen Treatment Centers The Daily Utah Chronicle | Apr 13, 2022 | expose About one of its programs

    The article reports allegations of physical restraint, emotional abuse, solitary confinement, forced medication, and sexual abuse experienced by survivors at Utah teen treatment centers such as Provo Canyon School and Red Rock Canyon School. It highlights the role of isolation in limiting access to help and calls for stronger state regulation to protect youths in these facilities.

  • Prescott Valley police: Runaway teen still missing after 5 months Arizona Republic | Mar 31, 2022 | event About one of its programs

    A 14‑year‑old girl, Aunum Conyers, went missing after a temporary release from Mingus Mountain Academy in October. Prescott Valley police have been searching for her for over five months. No additional information about her whereabouts has been released.

  • Family Reaches Settlement in Wrongful Death Lawsuit Against Michigan Youth Facility The Imprint | Jan 4, 2022 | lawsuit About one of its programs

    The family of 16‑year‑old Cornelius Frederick reached a settlement with Lakeside Academy after his death in 2020. The death was ruled a homicide following staff smothering, and the settlement was approved by a judge in December 2022. The case has prompted broader scrutiny of residential treatment facilities in Michigan.

  • Another Sequel-run Facility Closes Amid Abuse Claims The Imprint | Dec 15, 2021 | closure About one of its programs

    A New Mexico residential facility operated by Sequel Youth & Family Services is scheduled to close after state investigators documented physical abuse, inadequate care, and peer violence among children. The closure follows a settlement with the state and follows similar shutdowns of other Sequel-run programs where staff misconduct and neglect were reported.

  • Sequel to close New Mexico youth facility amid more abuse allegations | APM Reports APM Reports | Dec 3, 2021 | closure About one of its programs

    Sequel Youth & Family Services agreed to close Bernalillo Academy in Albuquerque, New Mexico, after a state investigation documented physical abuse, excessive restraints, and inadequate supervision of autistic residents. The closure follows multiple prior investigations and the shutdown of several other Sequel facilities nationwide.

  • Federal Watchdogs Find Abuse at For-Profit Youth Residential Programs in 18 States The Imprint | Nov 2, 2021 | corporate About one of its programs

    A report by the National Disability Rights Network documents widespread civil rights violations, physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, and inappropriate use of psychotropic medication across for-profit youth residential programs in 18 states. The findings highlight systemic issues driven by profit-seeking models, prompting calls for increased federal oversight and accountability.

  • Lawyers raise concerns over amount of time migrant children spend at Albion intake shelter News Channel 3 (WWMT) | Jul 15, 2021 | general About one of its programs

    Attorneys have raised concerns regarding the duration of stay and access to adequate language interpreters for unaccompanied migrant children at the Albion emergency intake shelter in Michigan. Legal representatives noted that extended stays in government-run facilities increase the risk of psychological distress, though recent data indicated a decrease in average lengths of stay.

  • Report Details Abuse & Neglect At Aurora Residential School For Students With Disabilities | Northern Public Radio: WNIJ and WNIU Northern Public Radio | Jun 9, 2021 | closure About one of its programs

    An independent report by the watchdog group Equip for Equality detailed allegations of neglect, improper physical restraint, and seclusion at Northern Illinois Academy, a residential facility for students with disabilities in Aurora, Illinois. Following the findings, the Illinois State Board of Education changed the facility's status to non-approved, prompting state agencies to transition students out of the program before the facility's planned closure.

  • State of Illinois Revokes Approval of Northern Illinois Academy and Relocates Students Following Oversight Report WCIA | May 18, 2021 | closure About one of its programs

    The State of Illinois announced plans to remove all students from Northern Illinois Academy, a residential treatment facility managed by Sequel Youth and Family Services, following a state-commissioned review by Equip for Equality that revealed findings of staff misconduct, improper restraints, seclusion, and neglect.

  • Michigan to ban restraints in youth facilities after Cornelius Frederick's death NBC News | Apr 2, 2021 | expose About one of its programs

    A 16‑year‑old foster child, Cornelius Frederick, died after being restrained for more than ten minutes by staff at Lakeside Academy, a residential treatment center in Kalamazoo. The incident prompted Michigan officials to propose new regulations banning restraints in group homes and to increase oversight of facilities operated by Sequel Youth and Family Services. Several former staff members have been charged with involuntary manslaughter and child abuse.

  • Falcon Ridge Ranch Academy Staff Member Arrested and Charged with Sexual Battery and Dealing Harmful Material The Salt Lake Tribune | Mar 11, 2021 | arrest About one of its programs

    A staff member at Falcon Ridge Ranch Academy in Utah was arrested and charged with multiple counts of sexual battery and dealing harmful material to a minor. According to charging documents, the employee showed explicit photos to four minor students and subjected them to inappropriate physical contact.

  • After years of abuse allegations, Iowa youth home to close NBC News | Feb 5, 2021 | closure About one of its programs

    Sequel Youth & Family Services announced the voluntary closure of Clarinda Academy in Iowa following multiple investigations by state agencies and watchdogs. The facility faced documentation falsification, physical restraints, unsanitary conditions, and allegations of staff misconduct, including sexual abuse and physical assault.

  • Normative Services Academy Announces Facility Closure in Sheridan Wyoming News Exchange | Jan 28, 2021 | closure About one of its programs

    Normative Services Academy, Inc. announced plans to close its residential facility in Sheridan, Wyoming, following an evaluation of program viability. The closure comes amid broader scrutiny of its parent company, Sequel Youth Services, and decisions by state agencies to remove youths from out-of-state facilities following a death by suicide at another company location.

  • Normative Services Academy in Sheridan set to close in March Sheridan Media News | Jan 27, 2021 | closure About one of its programs

    Sequel Youth and Family Services announced the planned closure of Normative Services Academy effective March 22, 2021. The company stated the decision was proactive, based on a viability assessment, and would provide support to students and staff during the transition. The closure was not linked to any concerns about the quality of care provided.

  • Sequel Youth Facilities Face Abuse Allegations Amid Profit Claims NBC News | Dec 16, 2020 | expose About one of its programs

    The article reports that Sequel youth facilities have generated significant revenue while facing allegations of abuse toward children in their care. It highlights concerns about the facilities' operational practices and oversight mechanisms.

  • Allegations of Abuse at U.S. Troubled‑Teen Boarding Schools Involving Canadian Teens HuffPost Canada | Nov 22, 2020 | expose About one of its programs

    The article reports allegations of physical restraint, solitary confinement, and sexual misconduct at several U.S. troubled‑teen boarding schools that housed Canadian teenagers. Survivors describe harsh punishments, forced medication, and isolation, and the facilities have faced legal and regulatory scrutiny. The piece highlights gaps in oversight and the impact on the survivors’ mental health.

  • At A Tennessee Psychiatric Treatment Center, Inexperienced And Overworked Staff Left Kids Without Care | WPLN News WPLN News | Oct 28, 2020 | closure About one of its programs

    Kingston Academy, a residential psychiatric treatment facility in Tennessee operated by Sequel Youth and Family Services, was closed after state investigations revealed unsafe conditions and inadequate care resulting from understaffing and inexperienced personnel. Former residents and staff reported frequent violence, policy violations regarding family contact, and the misuse of physical restraints by strained employees.

  • Disability Rights Organization To Investigate Utah’s Youth Residential Treatment Facilities | KUER KUER 90.1 | Oct 6, 2020 | event About one of its programs

    The Disability Law Center has launched a formal investigation into Utah's youth residential treatment facilities following increased public scrutiny and an incident at Red Rock Canyon School. The inquiry aims to evaluate conditions and practices across approximately 100 private behavioral treatment programs operating in the state.

  • "It's still not right." An investigation into Lakeside Academy. Michigan Public | Sep 24, 2020 | expose About one of its programs

    An investigative report details systemic failures at Lakeside Academy, a residential facility for troubled teens, including repeated use of physical restraints, inadequate oversight, and the death of a resident. The investigation highlights the state's failure to prevent harm and the subsequent closure of the facility. Survivors and former staff describe ongoing concerns about the safety and well‑being of youth placed in such settings.

  • Mingus Mountain Academy Reports Staff Injuries and Student Custody After Incident 12News | Jul 23, 2020 | event About one of its programs

    An incident involving an attack occurred at Mingus Mountain Academy in Prescott Valley, resulting in injuries to two staff members. Five students were taken into custody following the event at the residential facility for at-risk youth.

  • Starr Commonwealth cuts ties with contractor, ends residential programs Battle Creek Enquirer | Jul 9, 2020 | closure About one of its programs

    Starr Commonwealth announced the termination of its residential programs and its partnership with Sequel Youth and Family Services following state directives and investigations into safety violations and improper restraints. The decision impacts 135 students and 270 employees, prompting the facility to transition youth to alternative care settings and evaluate future uses for the campus.

  • Cornelius Frederick death: Attorney releases video showing 16-year-old being restrained and given chest compressions later CNN | Jul 8, 2020 | event About one of its programs

    In April 2020, 16-year‑old Cornelius Frederick was restrained by staff at Lakeside Academy in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and later received chest compressions while unresponsive. He suffered cardiac arrest and died two days later; three staff members have been charged with involuntary manslaughter and child abuse.

  • Attorney releases video showing incident preceding Lakeside Academy teen's death Newschannel 3 | Jul 7, 2020 | lawsuit About one of its programs

    A video released by the Kalamazoo County prosecutor shows staff restraining 16‑year‑old Cornelius Fredericks for over ten minutes, after which he was left unattended before medical care was provided. The restraint led to his death by restraint asphyxia, and the incident has resulted in criminal charges against several staff members and a wrongful‑death lawsuit filed by his family.

  • Starr Commonwealth severs Sequel ties WILX | Jul 2, 2020 | corporate About one of its programs

    In May 2020, a 16-year-old was restrained by staff from Sequel Youth and Family Services at Lakeside Academy and died two days later, with the death ruled a homicide. Following the incident, Starr Commonwealth terminated its contract with Sequel, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services revoked Sequel's state license.

  • Lawsuit and Investigation Detail History of Abuse and Death at Lakeside Academy Mother Jones | Jul 1, 2020 | expose About one of its programs

    Following the death of 16-year-old Cornelius Fredericks at Lakeside Academy in Michigan after staff used a prolonged physical restraint, a lawsuit was filed detailing a pattern of negligence, improper restraint usage, and safety violations at the facility. The operator, Sequel Youth and Family Services, faced increased scrutiny regarding systemic abuse, lack of oversight, and safety incidents across multiple residential facilities nationwide.

  • Death of 16-Year-Old at Lakeside Academy Leads to Legal Action Refinery29 | Jun 25, 2020 | lawsuit About one of its programs

    A 16‑year‑old resident of Lakeside Academy died from restraint asphyxia after staff applied physical restraint for an extended period. The incident prompted charges of involuntary manslaughter and child abuse against staff members and a lawsuit by the family seeking damages. The facility has since lost its license and staff have been terminated.

  • Gov. Whitmer issues statement on Lakeside Academy death | WKZO | Everything Kalamazoo | 590 AM · 106.9 FM WKZO | Jun 20, 2020 | closure About one of its programs

    A 16‑year‑old youth died after being restrained at Lakeside Academy, a residential treatment facility in Kalamazoo. Governor Whitmer announced the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services would suspend the facility’s license and remove staffing services from Sequel Youth and Family Services. The state plans to permanently close the facility following the death.

  • COVID-19 Outbreak Reported at Mingus Mountain Academy Daily Courier | May 14, 2020 | event About one of its programs

    In May 2020, Yavapai County health officials reported an outbreak of COVID-19 at Mingus Mountain Academy, an alternative high school and residential treatment center for adolescent girls in Prescott Valley, Arizona. A total of 84 students and 20 staff members tested positive for the virus, with affected individuals placed in isolation and treated on-site or via telemedicine.

  • Child Abuse Charge Dismissed Against Former Red Rock Canyon School Employee Deseret News | Jan 8, 2020 | arrest About one of its programs

    A judge dismissed a child abuse charge against a former staff member at Red Rock Canyon School who had been accused of punching a teenage resident during a facility altercation. Prosecutors dropped the misdemeanor count after the defense stated the employee acted in self-defense during a physical disturbance involving multiple individuals.

  • In wake of killing and escapes, Madison revokes Three Springs business license - al.com AL.com | Aug 13, 2019 | closure About one of its programs

    Madison officials revoked the business license of Three Springs after a teen death and multiple escape incidents were reported at the facility. The revocation follows investigations into safety violations and the circumstances surrounding the killing.

  • Firm accused of abusing troubled teens in Iowa, elsewhere under fire again The Des Moines Register | Jul 18, 2019 | expose About one of its programs

    Sequel Youth and Family Services faced renewed scrutiny from advocacy groups and state agencies following allegations of sexual abuse, excessive physical restraint, and policy violations at several of its facilities. While the company announced the closure of two locations in Utah following riots and investigations, facilities in Iowa continued to operate despite documented incidents of staff members using physical force and prolonged seclusion against residents.

  • Child battery investigation closes Union Juvenile Residential Facility, officials say CBS 4 | Jul 17, 2019 | closure About one of its programs

    The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice revoked its contract with Sequel TSI and initiated the removal of all youth from the Union Juvenile Residential Facility following a battery investigation and allegations of failing to report an incident. The facility, which housed male juvenile offenders, was temporarily closed while the Sheriff's Office investigated staff and inmate conduct.

  • Sequel Youth and Family Services Announces Closure of Red Rock Canyon School and Mount Pleasant Academy St. George News | Jul 16, 2019 | closure About one of its programs

    Sequel Youth and Family Services announced the voluntary closure of Red Rock Canyon School in St. George, Utah, following multiple state and county investigations into allegations of physical and sexual abuse, safety violations, and a reported student riot resulting in arrests. The parent company also announced the upcoming closure of a sister institution, Mount Pleasant Academy, while maintaining the decision was unrelated.

  • Sequel Youth and Family Services Closes Two Utah Treatment Facilities Amid Regulatory Scrutiny and Misconduct Investigations The Salt Lake Tribune | Jul 15, 2019 | closure About one of its programs

    Sequel Youth and Family Services announced the closure of Mount Pleasant Academy following the closure announcement of Red Rock Canyon School, both located in Utah. The facilities faced intense scrutiny, regulatory threats, and police investigations involving allegations of staff misconduct, sexual misconduct, and physical abuse.

  • Clarinda Academy, home for troubled kids, faces allegations of abuse (Part 1) NBC News | May 3, 2019 | expose About one of its programs

    NBC News reported on allegations of abuse at Clarinda Academy, a residential facility for teenagers in Iowa. Correspondent Kate Snow interviewed former students and staff members regarding their experiences and observations at the facility.

  • Clarinda Academy Residential Facility Faces Allegations of Mistreatment NBC News | May 3, 2019 | expose About one of its programs

    NBC News reported on allegations of mistreatment at Clarinda Academy, a residential facility and school for teenagers. The segment, presented by correspondent Kate Snow, examines the operational practices and allegations associated with the facility.

  • SWAT called to quell riot at Red Rock Canyon School in St. George | Gephardt Daily Gephardt Daily | Apr 28, 2019 | event About one of its programs

    On April 28, 2019, a riot erupted at Red Rock Canyon School, a residential treatment facility for youth in St. George, Utah. Multiple SWAT teams and police officers were deployed to contain the melee and separate the participants. Authorities reported injuries but did not disclose the number or severity.

  • Tennessee Department of Children's Services Removes Youth from Kingston Academy WVLT | Feb 21, 2019 | event About one of its programs

    Tennessee's Department of Children's Services removed 18 youth from Kingston Academy in Roane County following undisclosed concerns. The facility, operated by Sequel Youth and Family Services, provided psychiatric and stabilization care for foster children.

  • Lakeside Academy Employee Arrested on Charges of Unlawful Sexual Relations with Resident KSN | Aug 22, 2018 | arrest About one of its programs

    A staff member of Lakeside Academy was taken into custody on allegations of unlawful sexual relations with a minor. The arrest follows an investigation by local law enforcement into the alleged misconduct.

  • Investigation Opened at Utah Residential Facility Following Allegations of Misconduct ProPublica | Mar 21, 2016 | arrest About one of its programs

    Law enforcement raided Mount Pleasant Academy, a youth residential facility in Utah, following employee allegations regarding staff misconduct and child-on-child sexual abuse. The investigation follows a prior 2014 incident where a staff member was convicted of sexual battery, highlighting regulatory challenges within the state's oversight of residential treatment programs.

  • Resident of Youth Facility Killed After Being Hit by Vehicle on Interstate 94 FOX 17 | Jan 2, 2016 | event About one of its programs

    Seventeen-year-old Antonio Martinez, a resident at the Star Commonwealth youth facility, was struck and killed by a vehicle while walking along Interstate 94 in Sheridan Township, Michigan. Police reported that speed and alcohol were not factors in the collision, and an investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

  • Opinions differ on mainland placement for Hawaii's troubled teens (2015-02-14) archive.md (archived) | Feb 14, 2015 | general About one of its programs
  • Marion Youth Academy Counselor Arrested Following Physical Assault of Resident Orlando Sentinel | Feb 14, 2015 | arrest About one of its programs

    A youth counselor at Marion Youth Academy was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated child abuse after surveillance footage showed him striking a 16-year-old resident with a handheld radio. The incident reportedly occurred following an argument involving the resident throwing paper. The facility superintendent reported the altercation to deputies.

  • Marion Youth Academy Staff Member Arrested on Child Abuse Charges WESH | Feb 13, 2015 | arrest About one of its programs

    A staff member at the Marion Youth Academy in Ocala, Florida, was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse following an incident captured on surveillance video. According to incident reports, the employee struck a resident in the head with a hand-held radio and physically assaulted him, resulting in injuries that required medical treatment.

  • Police Investigate Student Death at Private Boarding School Deseret News | Mar 7, 2003 | event About one of its programs

    Police are investigating the death of a student at Red Rock Canyon School in St. George, Utah. The student was reported sick, received CPR, and was transported to a hospital where she was pronounced dead. Authorities are examining the illness and treatment provided by the school.

  • Youth Services International Announces Acquisition of Three Springs Inc. Baltimore Sun | Apr 17, 1996 | corporate About one of its programs

    Youth Services International Inc. announced a letter of intent to acquire Three Springs Inc., an Alabama-based operator of adolescent programs including a therapeutic wilderness program, for approximately $27 million in stock. Financial analysts noted the acquisition would expand Youth Services' market reach and increase revenue by more than a third.

  • Staff member at southern Utah youth treatment center arrested on sexual abuse charges FOX 13 News | arrest About one of its programs

    A 22-year-old staff member at Lava Heights Academy was arrested and charged with multiple sexual offenses after two teenage survivors reported inappropriate contact that began during a truth-or-dare game. The alleged abuse occurred in the facility's bathrooms and dormitory between mid-September and October 2024, and the suspect is being held without bail pending further legal proceedings.

  • Coronavirus cases at Palm Beach Youth Academy concern parents WPTV | expose About one of its programs

    Twenty-one juveniles at the Palm Beach Youth Academy tested positive for COVID‑19, prompting parents to express concern over the facility’s infection control practices. Staff reportedly did not wear masks and some appeared ill, raising questions about safety protocols. The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice confirmed the cases and noted that all staff and parents were notified.

  • Kingston Academy/ Camelot School sequelyouthservices.com | general About one of its programs

    The requested webpage could not be accessed because the Wayback Machine returned a block message indicating suspected abusive bot traffic. No article content was available for analysis.

Lawsuits

  • J.P., as Father and Next Friend of G.P. v. Sequel TSI of Alabama, LLC, et al. 2022 | Unknown | Circuit Court of Macon County, Alabama (removed to the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama, then remanded) | CV-2022-900020.00 (removed to federal court as 3:22-cv-00190-CWB)

    Outcome: Defendants removed the case to the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama on April 20, 2022, arguing that the two Sequel parent companies were fraudulently joined. On March 17, 2023 Magistrate Judge Chad W. Bryan granted the plaintiff's motion to remand, holding that the defendants had not shown the amount in controversy exceeded $75,000, and sent the case back to the Circuit Court of Macon County. The documents do not show what happened after remand.

    J.P. sued on behalf of his 15-year-old son G.P. in the Circuit Court of Macon County, Alabama on March 18, 2022, against Sequel TSI of Tuskegee, a psychiatric residential treatment facility, and its parent companies Sequel Youth & Family Services and Sequel TSI Holdings. The complaint alleges that after the Alabama Department of Youth Services placed G.P. there on November 2, 2021, he was sexually assaulted within four days and was choked, beaten and bitten by residents during a seven-week stay while staff failed to intervene, and that he attempted suicide. It also alleges dangerous restraints such as chokeholds, contraband smuggled in by staff and a lack of mental health care. The defendants removed the case to federal court, where an affidavit said Sequel's parent companies had given up control of the facility on October 1, 2021 and that the facility's owner had been renamed Brighter Path Alabama. On March 17, 2023 the federal court sent the case back to state court; the documents do not show how it ended.

  • Tenia Goshay, Personal Representative of the Estate of Cornelius Frederick v. Lakeside for Children d/b/a Lakeside Academy, et al. 2021 | Filed | United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan, Southern Division | 1:21-cv-00848-RJJ-RSK

    Tenia Goshay, as personal representative of the estate of Cornelius Frederick, sued Lakeside Academy, several Sequel Youth and Family Services companies and ten staff members in federal court in Michigan on September 30, 2021. The complaint alleges that on April 29, 2020, staff at Lakeside Academy in Kalamazoo restrained the 16-year-old state ward on the floor for throwing a sandwich and suffocated him while he said he could not breathe, then gave no aid, and that he died at Bronson Methodist Hospital on May 1, 2020. It alleges he had been restrained many times before, that Sequel was warned by Oregon Senator Sara Gelser about its restraint practices, and that the state had cited the facility for restraint and staffing violations since 2016. It states the state revoked Lakeside Academy's license after his death. The document shows only the filing of the complaint.

  • Onofrio v. Mingus Mountain Academy et al 2021 | Unknown | Arizona District Court | 3:21-cv-08173

    Diane Onofrio filed a civil rights employment discrimination lawsuit against Mingus Mountain Academy and Sequel Youth Services of Arizona LLC. The parties reached a settlement and the action was dismissed with prejudice in August 2022. The case involved claims related to employment discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

  • DURHAM v. CAPITAL ACADEMY et al 1:2018cv02045 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | Justia 2018 | Unknown | US District Court for the District of New Jersey | 1:2018cv02045

    The plaintiff, Damina Durham, filed a lawsuit against Capital Academy and Sequel Youth and Family Services in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. The complaint alleges labor-related violations under 29 U.S.C. § 704. The plaintiff seeks relief for the alleged wrongdoing.

  • 05-758 - Robertson et al v. Red Rock Canyon School LLC et al - Content Details - 2008 | Unknown | United States District Court for the District of Utah | 05-758

    Plaintiffs Alvin, Cynthia, and Alvin Chase Robertson filed a civil lawsuit in the United States District Court for the District of Utah against Red Rock Canyon School LLC and associated individual defendants, including Melanie Habibian, Sherman Habibian, and Todd Hockenbury. The case falls under the nature of suit category for other personal injury. The action involves allegations related to the operations and care provided at the Red Rock Canyon School facility.

  • Robertson et al v. Red Rock Canyon School LLC et al 2005 | Unknown | Utah District Court | 2:05-cv-00758

    Plaintiffs filed a personal injury and civil rights lawsuit against Red Rock Canyon School and related individuals in September 2005. The court later dismissed the federal civil rights claim and stayed the remaining state law claims. The case proceeded through various scheduling and expert witness motions before terminating in November 2009.

  • Falcon Ridge Ranch, Inc., et al. v. Sequel Youth Services of Red Rock Canyon, LLC, et al. Filed | Fifth Judicial District Court in and for Washington County, State of Utah | 200500204

    Outcome: In the underlying AAA arbitration (No. 01-17-0005-9666), the arbitrator issued an Interim Award on March 2, 2020, and a Final Award on May 1, 2020, denying the Sequel buyers' claims, granting the sellers' counterclaim (a contingent payment of at least $3,118,445), and awarding the sellers $1,300,000 in fees and costs. The sellers filed this amended petition on May 11, 2020, asking the court to confirm the awards; the documents do not show the court's ruling.

    Frank Habibian and the companies that sold Falcon Ridge Ranch, Red Rock Canyon School, Lava Heights Academy and Mount Pleasant Academy (the CARE Schools) to Sequel Youth Services in August 2016 asked a Utah state court in Washington County to confirm an arbitration award against the Sequel buyers; the amended petition is dated May 11, 2020. In the arbitration, Sequel sought indemnity for a June 2017 settlement of about $2.58 million it paid the United States and Nevada after self-reporting that the schools had paid referral fees for students covered by Nevada Medicaid. The arbitrator dismissed that claim because Sequel settled without notifying the sellers, found the sellers had been ignorant of the law rather than fraudulent, and ruled that Sequel breached the purchase agreement in how it ran the schools after the sale. This is a business dispute between a program's sellers and buyers, not an abuse case, but it documents the referral-fee practice and the Medicaid settlement. The documents do not show whether the court confirmed the award.

  • P.R. v. Red Rock Canyon School, et al. Filed

    Civil lawsuit filed against the now-closed Red Rock Canyon School in St. George, Utah and its parent company Sequel Youth and Family Services by former student P.R., who alleges she was sexually abused and impregnated by staff member Atonio Kavea while a minor, with the knowledge and alleged facilitation of other personnel including Kavea's sister, Asiah Kavea. The suit claims the school attempted to conceal the abuse and remove P.R. rather than protect her, and seeks over $10 million in damages. Reported by KUTV (Liv Kelleher) on 06/10/2025.

Every case in the lawsuit directory

Deaths on record

Young people who died at, or after being in, one of its programs.

  • Connor Bennett age 15 | Sequel TSI of Tuskegee | April 11, 2022 | Died by suicide
  • Cornelius Frederick age 16 | Lakeside Academy | May 1, 2020 | Restraint
  • Joseph Winters age 14 | Rose Rock Academy | February 1, 2013 | Restraint
  • (Unnamed boy) Red Rock Canyon School | December 1, 2007 | Died by suicide
  • Autumn Sunbear age 15 | Red Rock Canyon School | March 1, 2003 | Medical neglect
  • Katherine Lank age 16 | Red Rock Canyon School | January 13, 2002 | Hiking accident

Documents

Documents on file (142)
Forest Ridge Youth Services (2)
JP v Sequel TSI of Alabama (7)
McMahan-McWhorter v Sequel TSI Holdings (2)
Sequel TSI Owens Cross Roads (1)
Sequel TSI Paint Rock Valley (1)
Three Springs (101)
Blue Ridge (3)
Charles Britt Academy (1)
Courtland (2)
Duck River (9)
Englishton Park (3)
Madison (4)
New Beginnings (2)
New Direction (1)
New Dominion (13)
Paint Rock Valley (9)
PREA (3)
Turning Point (2)
Website Assorted (28)

Filed under its programs

128 documents across 28 programs: inspection reports, court records, clippings and more, each on its program page.

From SCIAD NET

5 documents about Sequel TSI that Kids Over Profits does not hold a copy of. SCIAD NET keeps them on Google Drive, where they open.

DHS Records (3)
Public Records (2)
Record updated October 2, 2026. Generated from the Kids Over Profits facility database. Suggest a correction