Accusations of Abuse and Neglect Surface at Kingstree Youth Facility

Accusations of Abuse and Neglect Surface at Kingstree Youth Facility

M Hasan    5:14 AM   

A Behavioral Treatment Facility Faces Allegations of Abuse and Neglect

A behavioral treatment facility in Williamsburg County, South Carolina, has come under scrutiny for multiple allegations involving sexual assault, physical abuse, and neglect. The facility, known as Broadstep Behavioral Health in Kingstree, is a 40-bed psychiatric residential treatment facility that serves children in foster care and those with special needs.

The facility treats individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health conditions. It primarily houses children referred by agencies such as the Department of Social Services or parents who believe their children need more support.

A Parent's Experience

In 2020, Deeva Williams sent her son, Justin Williams, to Broadstep Kingstree based on a recommendation from their Department of Disabilities and Special Needs case worker. “As a parent, you don’t know everything that your child is dealing with and enduring back there. They go through that door in the back and you have no idea,” she said.

Justin, who was only 13 years old when he first entered the facility, has autism and suffers from serious depression, often experiencing suicidal thoughts. “I was more than just depressed; I couldn’t be alone at all because it was like every day it was a crisis,” he said.

Once inside the facility, Justin claimed his depression and suicidal thoughts were not only ignored but encouraged. “When I talk about things that were bothering me and that were done to me, it’s never handled, it’s never addressed,” he said. “The only excuse they would give you is, ‘Oh, I’m an adult, I can say what I want.’ They felt like they were judge, jury and executioner.”

Tragedy and Legal Consequences

One of Justin’s friends at the facility was physically and emotionally assaulted, leading to severe emotional distress. The teenager took his own life inside the facility on January 25, 2024. Court documents state that Broadstep did not properly file an investigative report following the death, which violated a state regulation.

“I was extremely angry. After that, yeah, I cried a lot,” Justin said. “It shouldn’t take somebody having to die before people realize the effect that they have on other people.”

Repeated Complaints and Violations

The situation at Broadstep Kingstree is far from isolated. The South Carolina Department of Public Health provided data showing dozens of complaints against the facility from 2023 until this year. These complaints include staff hitting, sitting on, and stepping on children, allowing children to fight, isolating them due to understaffing, improper medical care, bed bugs, residents escaping, emotional abuse, and sexual assault.

“Why is it that more vulnerable children can go to a daycare, go to somewhere where they’re supposed to be taken care of, and get this type of treatment?” Deeva Williams asked. “You are having to try and deal with this and put the pieces back together. We were already out of our depth.”

One complaint claims a patient was physically assaulted by a staff member and placed in restraints. Another states that a staff member slammed another patient into a wall. Another complaint alleges that a staff member poured bleach into a Welch’s grape juice bottle and threw it into the trash before a resident drank it, causing severe vomiting.

An additional complaint states a resident was found with shoe prints on their body, with a staff member claiming they accidentally stepped on the individual’s face.

Legal Representation and Ongoing Issues

“These facilities are shrouded in confidentiality and kind of secrecy protections under the law,” said Attorney Heather Hite, who has represented multiple clients against Broadstep. “These children haven’t done anything wrong to deserve the way that they’ve been treated.”

Hite has represented a then 13-year-old special needs child who was placed into Broadstep’s care. According to court documents, the girl experienced employees refusing to give residents water and blankets when they were cold. She also witnessed other children being restrained and strip-searched.

The 13-year-old was later moved to Broadstep’s Kingstree location, which the lawsuit claims was even worse. The girl reported being sexually assaulted by a maintenance man who entered her room.

“She was further abused and neglected. It made her needs — they were already bad — go from bad to worse,” Hite said.

State Agencies and Facility Responses

How is a facility like Broadstep still operating despite its history of abuse and neglect? After each complaint is filed, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) is required to inspect a facility. However, even when Broadstep failed inspections, the facility would provide a corrective action plan and claim improvements were made.

Yet, SCDPH allowed Broadstep to continue operating despite ongoing complaints and violations. “I think the people who run these companies, run these facilities, they should be held responsible because you’re dealing with these precious packages,” said Deeva Williams.

SCDPH declined an interview request but released a statement explaining its role in licensing and regulating facilities. The department stated it conducts inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with regulations. Since June 2024, SCDPH has conducted one routine inspection, two food and sanitation inspections, and five complaint investigations of Excalibur Youth Services Kingstree, resulting in eight cited violations.

DSS and DDSN did not respond to requests for comment. Broadstep’s corporate offices did not respond to three different requests for comment.

Continued Concerns

Despite the allegations, Broadstep continues to operate in several locations, including Simpsonville and Williamsburg. The company previously had locations in Georgetown, Pickens, and Simpsonville, but after media coverage, the Georgetown and Pickens locations closed down.

Broadstep also has a location open in Summerville that has faced lawsuits in recent years. However, SCDPH states that the facility is technically a group home, not a behavioral treatment facility, meaning the state agency does not oversee it.

Friends and Colleagues Raise Over $40K for UPMC Nurse Attacked by Patient

Friends and Colleagues Raise Over $40K for UPMC Nurse Attacked by Patient

M Hasan    1:06 AM   

Travis Dunn's Recovery and the Call for Workplace Safety

Travis Dunn, a patient care technician at UPMC Altoona, has been released from the hospital after being severely injured in an attack by a patient. His recovery is now taking place at home, with continued support from his employer. "I am pleased to share that Travis Dunn, our patient care technician injured in the horrific attack on Saturday, has been released from the hospital and will be continuing his recovery at home with continued support from us," said Mike Corso, president of UPMC Altoona, in a statement.

Dunn was attacked in the emergency room, where he suffered a fractured skull, bleeding on the brain, and other serious injuries. The incident left him unconscious and required immediate medical attention. While recovering at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, friends and colleagues began raising funds for his medical expenses. A GoFundMe page was created, which has raised over $40,000 — close to its $60,000 goal.

UPMC has assured that Dunn will receive full pay and benefits during his recovery and will not need to use any paid time off. Worker’s compensation is already in place, with a priority process for insurance claims and no out-of-pocket expenses for the employee.

A Growing Concern: Workplace Violence in Healthcare

The incident has sparked renewed calls for action from UPMC Altoona employees, who have long expressed concerns about the increasing violence in healthcare settings. Nurses and staff have reported daily incidents of verbal or physical assaults, with some describing the current situation as a crisis.

Jaime Balsamo, a nurse at UPMC Altoona, shared her frustration with Pittsburgh's Action News 4 reporter Sheldon Ingram. "We've been telling UPMC for years that we need more safety measures implemented, and we kept saying something bad is going to happen, and it did." Leann Opell, another nurse, echoed these sentiments, stating that the recent attack was the worst she had seen.

State Rep. Bridget Kosierowski, a co-sponsor of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Workplace Violence Prevention Act, has also spoken out. Although the bill passed the House in May, it has yet to move forward in the state Senate. Kosierowski highlighted the dangers faced by healthcare workers, citing incidents such as a man entering an intensive care unit with a gun and using it against staff.

Recommendations for Safer Workplaces

Employees at UPMC Altoona are urging administrators to take stronger steps to prevent future attacks. Some of the recommendations include:

• A full and transparent investigation into the incident, including how and why current safety protocols failed, and what measures could have prevented it
• A clear, enforced zero-tolerance policy for violence or threats against healthcare workers — by patients, visitors, or staff
• Posted signs in every area of the hospital that assaulting a healthcare worker is a felony
• Panic alarms installed in every patient care area
• Metal detectors installed at all patient and visitor entry points
• Enhanced security presence and faster response times, particularly in high-risk areas such as the ER, and during off-peak hours
• Mandatory de-escalation and workplace safety training for all staff, with regular refreshers
• Comprehensive support for affected employees, including paid leave, trauma counseling, and legal or workers’ compensation assistance as needed
• Direct involvement of frontline employees and union representatives in developing and implementing safety improvements

UPMC's Response and Commitment to Safety

In response to the incident, UPMC Altoona released a statement emphasizing their commitment to a safe environment. "We are committed to maintaining a safe environment in which to give and receive care. When any member of our UPMC family is injured, our first priority is their health, recovery, and well-being."

The statement also highlighted the swift actions taken by UPMC Police and Emergency Department teams, who arrived within 47 seconds of the initial contact. The assailant was arrested and transferred to Blair County prison without bail. UPMC has also mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance safety, including advanced education and de-escalation training, active drills, panic buttons, secure rooms, and enhanced facility entrance technologies.

Recent Updates and Community Support

On November 5, 2025, UPMC Altoona President Mike Corso sent an internal email addressing the incident. He reiterated the organization’s commitment to safety and provided clarity on the situation. "We are incredibly grateful for the swift, courageous response of our UPMC Police and Emergency Department teams, whose actions prevented further harm and ensured our colleague received immediate care."

The email also emphasized the importance of supporting affected employees, with resources available through CISM-ASAP, LifeSolutions, and Spiritual Care teams.

Friends and coworkers continue to show their support for Travis Dunn, with many expressing hope for his full recovery. As the healthcare community grapples with the growing issue of workplace violence, the incident at UPMC Altoona serves as a reminder of the urgent need for systemic change.

People Reveal Their Most "Disturbing" Encounter — I'm Shivering

People Reveal Their Most "Disturbing" Encounter — I'm Shivering

M Hasan    8:16 AM   

Understanding the Impact of Unsettling Encounters

When our instincts tell us something is wrong, it's often a sign that we should pay attention. These stories from individuals who have encountered disturbing people highlight the importance of trusting our gut feelings and being vigilant in our interactions with others. From unsettling behaviors to outright violence, these accounts reveal the hidden dangers that can lurk behind seemingly normal appearances.

Real-Life Experiences That Left a Lasting Impression

1. One story shared by a Redditor involved an ICU patient who had no remorse for running down a motorcyclist during a fit of road rage. The individual spoke about the incident as if it were a trivial event, leaving the listener shocked and disturbed.

2. Another account described a man who followed the user home from school. His persistent behavior eventually led to a tragic outcome when he was convicted of murder. The eerie similarity between the victim and the user made the experience even more unsettling.

3. A college roommate’s younger brother was described as having a "deadness" in his eyes and rarely speaking. Years later, it was revealed that he committed a brutal murder, highlighting the danger of not recognizing red flags early on.

4. A family member's involvement in harassment and legal issues further emphasized how disturbing individuals can affect those around them, especially through online platforms.

5. An ex-stepmother was noted for her detachment from reality and manipulative behavior. Her attempt to sell the ashes of the user's father added another layer of horror to the situation.

6. A military supervisor was found guilty of sexual assault and kidnapping, showing how dangerous individuals can rise through the ranks despite their harmful actions.

7. A screenwriting class participant exhibited concerning behavior, including discussions about drugs and violent gangs, which ultimately led to his expulsion from the course due to safety concerns.

8. Another individual shared a story about someone who enjoyed harming animals, viewing it as a game. This behavior raised serious questions about the person's mental state and potential for violence.

9. A high school friend was described as lacking empathy and actively working to undermine the user. This highlights the danger of people who appear friendly but have malicious intentions.

10. A liquor store employee's brother was later revealed to have killed his family, emphasizing the need to be cautious around those who seem quiet or uninvolved.

11. A coworker who collected hair from desks raised concerns about his motives and potential for harm.

12. A popular high school student was found to be a serial rapist, showcasing how dangerous individuals can blend into social circles without suspicion.

13. A man's act of defacing a woman's car with feces demonstrated a level of cruelty that left others in shock and disbelief.

14. A wealthy individual's ignorance of his servant's enslavement revealed the extent of his detachment from reality and the potential for exploitation.

15. A seemingly normal guy turned out to be a murderer, proving that even the most ordinary individuals can harbor dark secrets.

16. A past relationship involving bondage and a subsequent accidental killing underscored the importance of recognizing warning signs and taking action when necessary.

The Importance of Awareness and Vigilance

These stories serve as reminders that we should never ignore our instincts. Whether it's a strange behavior, an unsettling presence, or a feeling of discomfort, paying attention to these signals can help prevent dangerous situations. It's crucial to remain aware of our surroundings and the people we interact with, as the line between normalcy and danger can be thin.

Resources for Support

If you or someone you know has experienced any form of abuse or violence, there are resources available to provide support. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers helpline services at 1-800-950-6264. For those affected by sexual assault, the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE provides assistance and referrals.

By sharing these stories, we hope to raise awareness and encourage individuals to trust their instincts. Every encounter can be a learning opportunity, and staying informed can make a significant difference in our safety and well-being.

I Went to the ER. I Was Cuffed in a Cop Car.

I Went to the ER. I Was Cuffed in a Cop Car.

M Hasan    8:31 AM   

A Story of Crisis, Containment, and the System That Failed Me

When I finally told someone I was afraid I might hurt myself, I thought I was doing what everyone says to do: “Ask for help. Tell someone. Don’t suffer in silence.” I didn’t expect to end up handcuffed in the back of a police cruiser, stripped of my clothes, my rights, and any remaining dignity.

I had been struggling. Sleep-deprived and in the throes of a bipolar mixed episode, physically wrecked by chronic illness, and stressed to the max. I didn’t want to die, but living had just become too painful. When I finally said it out loud, honestly and clearly to a psychiatrist in the ER, I wasn’t in any immediate danger. I was asking for help early, while I still could.

The plan was agreed on with the consulting psychiatrist: a voluntary admission to a reputable hospital with a decent psychiatric unit. We even made a list of hospitals I was OK with, and two I absolutely was not. I knew from personal experience as a peer support volunteer that one was poorly managed, unsafe, and chaotic. The other was underfunded and more like a holding pen for people. I wasn’t asking for five stars; I just wanted to avoid any more trauma.

But when it came time to transfer me, none of the hospitals we had agreed to had a bed. Guess who did. I refused. Calmly, clearly. I offered to remain in the ER on suicide precautions until a bed opened elsewhere. I was told that was unreasonable because I was “stable” and the ER is for emergencies. I asked to be discharged to go directly to another hospital, with my partner. I was told that would put me at risk of harm.

I was in crisis, yes — but I was asking for help. I did not understand that by self-reporting that I was at risk, I had given away my control. Their solution was to issue a 72-hour Temporary Detention Order (TDO) and force me to go.

Two police officers showed up. Quiet. Professional. Still cops. They took my clothes, my phone, my belongings, and my autonomy. Strip search. Handcuffs. I was paraded through the hospital in front of patients and staff like I was being arrested — because I told the truth about being in pain.

What followed was one of the worst weeks of my life. The conditions in the psych unit were worse than anything I ever saw in jails. I was locked in my room nearly the entire time. No TV. No books. The food was inedible, and I barely ate. My bed was a wooden plank. My blanket? One hand towel. Two hand towels are apparently highly dangerous. I was not permitted to shower unobserved.

My roommate, deep in psychosis, spent most of the time arguing with ghosts and screaming at Jesus. He wasn’t violent, just suffering. During his brief lucid moments, he was sweet and apologized profusely. It was heartbreaking. There was no therapy. No individual counseling. No structured treatment of any kind. There was an hour of crafts run by a warm and caring volunteer, which was one of the few times I was allowed out of my room.

I wasn’t consulted about my treatment plan or offered options or alternatives. Just crafts and lithium. Lithium can be incredibly effective for many people in crisis, but has a long list of side effects and risks. Also, in some cases — like mine — it is simply ineffective. Which, if anyone had cared to listen to me, I could have told them. There is no better historian about me than me.

At the conclusion of the 10 minutes I had with my doctor, he was annoyed that I had been TDO’ed there. He agreed that I was experiencing a crisis, but far from an urgent one, and definitely not worth being on his ward for psychotic and violent patients. He knew I didn’t belong there, and he wanted me out as much as I did. He also didn’t want to medicate me unnecessarily. But he knew how the judge operated. The bipolar TDO checklist was in play. If my lithium levels weren’t in the therapeutic range, my clinical status wouldn’t matter.

Seventy-two hours would then become 30 days. So he said, gently: “Just take it. Two days. It’ll suck, but it’s the only way out.”

I was less than 24 hours in, and it was already unbearable. So, I agreed, reluctantly. My court-appointed lawyer showed up five minutes before the hearing, also trying to help. He advised me to surrender my Second Amendment rights, not because I posed any danger, but because the judge would require it. If I declined: 30 days.

I didn’t own a gun and have no intention of ever buying one. I’m something of a pacifist and abhor tools of violence. The lawyer explained that I could later apply to have my rights restored and that it was technically voluntary … but it might still show up on legal forms, indefinitely. An administrative scarlet letter. A permanent mark from a temporary hold.

I reluctantly agreed. But the best time to make consequential legal decisions is NOT during involuntary detainment with only five minutes of legal counsel. And if I was too unwell to make medical decisions, how was I somehow competent enough to waive constitutional rights? If I was well enough to make those decisions, maybe I didn’t belong there at all.

The judge, barely looking at me or my file, asked if my lithium levels were therapeutic. He asked if I’d surrendered my gun rights. He checked the boxes on his list. He still extended the TDO to 30 days, but allowed a provision for my doctor to override it, which he immediately did.

And just like that, I was discharged. No therapy. No plan. No follow-up. Just out. Still in crisis, but now disoriented, sick from the lithium, humiliated, and traumatized on top of it. I left worse than when I entered.

Now, when things get bad, when I’m sleep-deprived, when my body isn’t working right, when my thoughts start to splinter, I instinctively hesitate to tell anyone. Because now I know that honesty isn’t always safe.

What happened to me wasn’t an outlier. It wasn’t a rare failure inside a system that usually works. This IS how the system works. A system that responds to pain and suffering with containment instead of care. A system that substitutes police for therapists, and compliance for healing.

So, I’m cautious. If I end up in crisis again, the ER is the last place I would turn. Not unless someone I trust can promise me that I won’t be punished for trying to stay alive. That I won’t be criminalized for being sick. That the words I say won’t be used to take away my voice.

I didn’t end up in that facility by accident. I ended up there because I’m publicly insured, because I have a chronic illness, because I live in the wrong zip code and asked for the wrong kind of help on the wrong day of the week.

Many people, especially those already marginalized, have no trusted provider, no family support, no safety net. And for people in that position, ERs are often the only option, but also the most expensive and the least likely to provide care.

And if you’re poor, disabled, incarcerated, uninsured, a person of color, an immigrant, identify as a woman or LGBT+, or as part of any marginalized group? The chances that you’ll receive actual care drop even further.

Yet my story is not a message to stay silent, or to avoid seeking help. It’s a message to demand better help — and to ask for it in ways that protect your dignity.

Start with someone you trust. A partner, a close friend, a spiritual adviser. Someone who truly cares and can walk with you, literally or figuratively. If you have an established relationship with a family doctor or a mental health professional, built on trust, start there. Ask them to help you navigate, to advocate, to hold space.

Don’t be afraid to ask how providers handle mental health emergencies. Tell your loved ones and providers your wishes if you are ever in crisis. Create a “Psychiatric Advance Directive.” Put your wishes in writing. Identify who should speak for you, what medications you will or won’t accept, what facilities are off-limits. A crisis is not the time to start setting boundaries. Do it now.

There are some organizations doing it differently. If you’re struggling, The Trevor Project offers 24/7 crisis support and can help you figure out the safest route forward. Or try searching for “crisis warm lines.” These are peer-run resources — people who’ve been there, who can help you figure out where to start. No judgment. No police.

I can’t promise that your experience will be better than mine. But I can say this: You deserve for it to be. We all do.

If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for mental health support. Additionally, you can find local mental health and crisis resources at dontcallthepolice.com. Outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention.