1996 death of Ricky Wagener

Survivor-advocacy summaries identify Ricky Wagener as a 15-year-old Pinehaven resident who ran away in November 1995 and was later found dead. Those materials describe disputes over the circumstances and timeline surrounding his death.

2012 CNN investigation

CNN reported allegations that Pinehaven staff used pressure points and choking to force children into compliance. NBC Montana later summarized that reporting and noted that founder Bob Larsson acknowledged use of pain-based pressure points while denying broader abuse allegations.

2023 Montana oversight law

Montana passed a 2023 law adding safeguards for licensed private youth programs, including unmonitored weekly video calls, more unannounced inspections, and an abuse hotline. NBC Montana reported that faith-based facilities such as Pinehaven remained outside the law's core licensing requirements.