Youth camp shut down after child abuse allegations

HENRY COUNTY, Ala. (WTVY) - State officials suspended the license of Camp SAYLA, an Abbeville youth detention center, in the aftermath of child abuse allegations.

“While the license is suspended they cannot accept any youth from the courts,” said Dr. Shannon Weston, Alabama Department of Youth Services spokesperson.

Investigators charged 45-year-old Kenyatta Dewayne Danzey, a Camp SAYLA supervisor and fugitive from justice, last month on 17 charges he abused boys there.

“Youth are referred (to Camp SAYLA) by juvenile courts but are not in the custody of DYS,” Weston said.

The youngsters have all been relocated.

Weston told WTVY News4 that whether Camp SAYLA reopens depends on several factors.

“Final determination of whether the license will be reinstated will not be determined until a corrective action plan has been approved and successfully completed,” Weston said.

News4 reached out to Camp SAYLA operator Locy “Sonny” Baker for comment.

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