(LANSING) - Six women and girls have filed suit against Vista Maria, a former Dearborn Heights residential treatment facility for at-risk girls, alleging a long-running pattern of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, according to Bridge Michigan.
The lawsuit, filed in Wayne County Circuit Court, says the plaintiffs -- now 16 to 40 years old -- were placed at the facility as minors through the Michigan child welfare system and were subjected to improper restraints, denial of food and basic needs, and other mistreatment by staff.
Attorneys for the plaintiffs argue Vista Maria failed to properly supervise staff, protect residents and maintain safe conditions, bringing claims that include negligence, assault and battery, emotional distress, and negligent hiring and retention.
Vista Maria told Bridge Michigan it is reviewing the allegations and will respond through the legal process.
The residential treatment program, which once housed as many as 150 girls, was shut down in December 2025 after the state stopped making referrals earlier that year.
Bridge reports the lawsuit follows roughly 55 women and girls coming forward in February with similar abuse allegations tied to the facility