Home / Crime and Justice / 70 Students Say Adults Abused Them at Arts Camp
70 Students Say Adults Abused Them at Arts Camp
29 Jul
Summary
- Nearly 50 adults accused of abusing 70 students over decades.
- Abuse allegations range from lewd comments to rape.
- Independent investigation deemed findings 'simply, devastating'.
A comprehensive independent investigation into Interlochen Center for the Arts has uncovered widespread sexual abuse and exploitation. Nearly 50 adults in leadership positions are accused of abusing at least 70 students over several decades. The investigation, which included around 180 interviews, detailed allegations ranging from lewd comments to rape.
The findings, described as 'simply, devastating' by the law firm conducting the review, suggest that predators felt empowered. Interlochen's president, Trey Devey, expressed that the abuse is 'absolutely heartbreaking' and apologized for the harm experienced by the community. The center has provided accused individuals' names to prosecutors.
Allegations surfaced concerning multiple former educators, staff, and administrators, with some linked to Jeffrey Epstein. The report highlights a concerning pattern where alleged misconduct was either ignored or covered up by leadership. None of the accused individuals currently work at Interlochen.
The investigation reviewed incidents spanning from the 1960s to the 2010s, with most allegations stemming from before 2000. Interlochen is now establishing a counseling support fund for survivors and is considering renaming facilities associated with accused individuals. The center demolished 'Epstein Lodge' in June 2026.
