Trails Carolina, a therapy camp for troubled teens in the mountains, is currently disputing a deficiencies report issued by the Department of Health and Human Services. The report was released following the tragic death of a 12-year-old camper at the camp in February. However, officials from Trails Carolina have stated that they are working with state officials to address and correct any issues that were found in the report.
On February 3rd, at around 7am, the incident occurred at the camp which is located near Lake Toxaway just south of Asheville. Following the boy’s death, DHHS launched an investigation and all other teens at the camp were removed. As a result, the camp’s license was suspended.
In response to the deficiencies report and potential license revocation, Trails Carolina submitted a correction plan on April 4th. The camp has acknowledged the need for changes including ceasing to use bivvies and tarps as restraints for potentially dangerous kids. They also outlined plans for improved incident reporting procedures, increased communication with parents or guardians and changes in medication administration to teens.
Despite their commitment to making these adjustments, Trails Carolina officials have made it clear that they do not agree with the state’s report. They maintain that the cause of death has not been officially determined by medical examiner and any speculation regarding incident is premature. In addition to this dispute, Trails Carolina was fined $18,000 in March for violations related to their treatment of teenagers at their facility.
The camp continues to work with DHHS officials to address any concerns and improve their programming for troubled teens while maintaining its stance on certain aspects of its operations
