Article Summary
A new lawsuit alleges that a camper was sexually assaulted at Trails Carolina, a now-closed wilderness therapy camp in Western North Carolina. The lawsuit claims that the camp’s owner, Family Help & Wellness, engaged in unfair and deceptive trade practices and negligence, leading to the assault and the camper’s subsequent emotional distress. This is not the first lawsuit filed against the camp related to sexual assault allegations.
What This Means for You
- If you or someone you know has attended Trails Carolina or Family Help & Wellness programs, it’s essential to be aware of these sexual assault allegations.
- Parents should be cautious when choosing wilderness therapy camps for their children and thoroughly research the camp’s history and policies.
- Advocacy groups and mental health professionals should work together to ensure the safety and well-being of children in wilderness therapy programs.
- Legislation and regulations concerning wilderness therapy camps should be reevaluated to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Lawsuit Alleges Sexual Assault at Trails Carolina Wilderness Therapy Camp
This story includes descriptions of child sexual assault.
The lawsuit, filed in Wake County Superior Court on May 22, alleges that an older camper sexually assaulted a younger camper at Trails Carolina in 2018. The suit claims that Family Help & Wellness failed to adequately investigate and address the alleged assault, and that the camp’s policies allowed for adults who engage in same-gender sex with minors to participate in their programs.
The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages under state law, as it is the third lawsuit filed against Family Help & Wellness related to alleged sexual assaults at Trails Carolina.
Wilderness Training & Consulting, the owner of Family Help & Wellness, disputes the claims made in the lawsuit and is prepared to defend its case in court.
Family Help & Wellness continues to operate therapeutic camps and residential treatment programs in several states, including Asheville Academy, a boarding school and residential treatment center in Weaverville for girls as young as 10.
People Also Ask About
- What is Trails Carolina, and why is it in the news? Trails Carolina is a now-closed wilderness therapy camp in Western North Carolina where multiple sexual assault allegations have been made.
- How many lawsuits have been filed against Trails Carolina? Three lawsuits have been filed against Trails Carolina related to sexual assault allegations or negligence in addressing such incidents.
- What is Family Help & Wellness, and who owns it? Family Help & Wellness is an organization that operates therapeutic camps and residential treatment programs. It is owned by Wilderness Training & Consulting.
- What should parents look for when choosing a wilderness therapy camp? Parents should research the camp’s history, policies, and accreditations to ensure their child’s safety and well-being.
Expert Opinion
These allegations against Trails Carolina highlight a need for greater oversight and regulation of wilderness therapy programs. As mental health treatment options for adolescents, they must prioritize camper safety and well-being. Increased transparency and stringent guidelines can help prevent future incidents and protect vulnerable young people in these programs.
Key Terms
- Trails Carolina
- Family Help & Wellness
- Wilderness therapy camp
- Sexual assault allegations
- Negligence
- Compensatory damages
- Wilderness Training & Consulting
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