2024 License Suspension

The Alabama Department of Youth Services told ABC 33/40 that it suspended Camp SAYLA's license on January 19, 2024, citing apparent failures to promptly report abuse allegations, protect youth from corporal or unusual punishment, and address other issues observed during an unannounced site visit. The department said it had not received complaints before January 2024 and that Camp SAYLA was not operating or housing youth as of December 2025 (ABC 33/40).

Abuse Lawsuits

In 2025, attorneys announced multiple lawsuits alleging abuse at Camp SAYLA. The allegations included beatings, starvation, cruel punishments, forced fighting, and unsafe living conditions. ABC 33/40 reported in December 2025 that a fourth lawsuit had been filed and that former staff member Kenyatta Danzey had been arrested and indicted on child-abuse charges; Danzey was reported to be out on bond awaiting trial (Morris Haynes, ABC 33/40).