Paris Hilton testifies to US Congress about childhood abuse

Paris Hilton has called for change to youth residential facilities and shared her own experience with alleged abuse before a US congressional committee.

Hilton said she was “force-fed medications and sexually abused by staff” after being sent to a private youth residential facilities as at a teenager.

Her testimony shines a light on the so-called trouble teen industry worth billions of dollars, which features institutions aimed at reforming wayward youths.

She has previously spoken about the trauma of being sent to one of these units aged 16 when her parents become concerned at her behaviour.

Ms Hilton urged lawmakers to reauthorise an act that provides funding for child welfare issues and to pass the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act.

The American socialite and businesswoman is an outspoken advocate for children in youth facilities as well as those in the foster care system.

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