Dateline NBC Broken Circle - Update
Aug 13, 2024
A school meant to help troubled girls reveals a shocking reality of abuse and fear. A mother’s search for her daughter leads to a disturbing reform school where kindness hides dark truths. The narrative uncovers painful family dynamics and the silence of victims. One young girl’s harrowing experiences shed light on coercion within the system, while Amanda confronts her father's legacy of allegations. The journey to uncover the truth invigorates a quest for justice, resilience, and advocacy for children's welfare in the shadow of trauma.
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Desperate Mom
- Teresa Tucker, a desperate single mom, sought help for her rebellious 16-year-old daughter, Ashley.
- She enrolled Ashley in Circle of Hope Girls Ranch, a Christian boarding school in Missouri, after a referral from her pastor.
Initial Impressions
- Ashley Tucker recalls feeling scared and nervous during the trip to Circle of Hope.
- Initially, the Householders, who ran the school, appeared welcoming, creating a false sense of security.
Harsh Discipline
- Former Circle of Hope student Denae Hetrick describes the school as rundown and homely.
- Students faced harsh discipline, including scrubbing floors with toothbrushes and standing facing a wall for extended periods.