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Sequel Youth & Family Services

Sequel Youth & Family Services operated residential treatment centers in 14 states for kids with behavioral problems. It also operated clinics, outpatient programs, group homes and day schools. A yearlong APM Reports investigation revealed a company founded on noble ideals that pursued profit and expansion by housing traumatized kids while trying to keep expenses low.

More than 40 states have sent their most vulnerable kids to facilities run by a for-profit company named Sequel. Many of those kids were abused there.
September 28, 2020

More than 40 states have sent their most vulnerable kids to facilities run by a for-profit company named Sequel. Many of those kids were abused there.

A yearlong investigation led by APM Reports finds the company took in some of the most difficult-to-treat children while keeping costs low in pursuit of profit and expansion. The result was dozens of cases of physical violence, sexual assault and improper restraints. Despite repeated scandals, many states and counties continue to send kids to Sequel for one central reason: They have little choice.

How Sequel wins business from California
September 28, 2020

How Sequel wins business from California

Nonprofit operations in Utah and Wyoming allow the company to earn money treating its kids.

Washington becomes latest state to ditch Sequel
December 9, 2020

Washington becomes latest state to ditch Sequel

State officials decided to no longer place foster children with the company following an APM Reports investigation and reports of abuse.

California hands Sequel a major setback
December 14, 2020

California hands Sequel a major setback

The state’s decision to no longer send children to out-of-state youth treatment facilities capped two difficult weeks for the embattled company.

Embattled Sequel closes three more facilities
February 10, 2021

Embattled Sequel closes three more facilities

Following abuse reports, the company has now shuttered a dozen youth treatment centers in the past two years, including its flagship academy.

Sequel confronts more abuse allegations amid concerns about its finances
May 21, 2021

Sequel confronts more abuse allegations amid concerns about its finances

The embattled youth treatment company will soon shutter its Northern Illinois Academy, the 13th closure since 2019, while creditors doubt it can repay its debts.

Sequel to close New Mexico youth facility amid more abuse allegations
December 3, 2021

Sequel to close New Mexico youth facility amid more abuse allegations

The once-ascendant youth treatment company has agreed to shutter its 14th center in the past three years following a state report that found abuse of kids with autism, including one resident who was allegedly whipped with a tree branch.

Under scrutiny, company that claimed to help troubled youth closes many operations and sells others
April 26, 2022

Under scrutiny, company that claimed to help troubled youth closes many operations and sells others

Many of Sequel’s behavioral health treatment centers are sold or closed following abuse allegations. But some facilities might have new life under a different name and one of the original founders.

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