Whether one is for or against the program, it is undeniable that the experience was like no other. There were many rules in place that dictated each behavior; consequences were often swift and feared. Every action was analytically scrutinized and procedurally controlled including the number of pieces of toilet paper allowed when using the bathroom to duration and frequency of food and sleep. It is equally undeniable that life itself was interrupted during one's time in the program. Teens were not allowed to be alone, not allowed to watch television nor listen to the radio, not allowed to read, not allowed to think to ones' self, not allowed to talk out of turn, not allowed to interact or talk to members of the opposite sex, not allowed to write, see family, or make phone calls, diet was restricted, and teens were not permitted to leave the building for school or work during the initial phases of the program. Treatment was without respite and continuous during all hours of the day and night lasting for years in most circumstances.
State investigators found the facility responsible for over 50 violations that included sleep and nutritional deprivation, blatant physical abuse, and civil rights violations. Though the findings were conclusive and well documented, the governing body of licensure had difficulty with the revocation of KIDS provisional license to operate. The facility remained opened with little change throughout various probationary periods, appeals, and temporary injunctions. The fight to stay open was a battle waged in a very public arena that became a part of El Paso history. There was involvement of state government, senators, private detectives, prominent attorneys, an heiress, the mayor, Geraldo, and even the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Circumstances of child abuse, multiple suicides, auto theft rings,,false imprisonment, escapes, incest, and brainwashing added to the controversy surrounding the program. KIDS of El Paso closed after having to file for bankruptcy in late 1989 as many assets were exhausted on legal costs and associated expenditures involved with defending the program.
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