1994: Westword Investigates Casey Collier's Experience at Sorenson's Ranch School

In March 1994, journalist Karen Bowers published “Wild at Heart,” a two-part investigation in Denver's Westword examining the life and institutional experiences of 17-year-old Casey Collier. The investigation documented Casey's placement at Sorenson's Ranch School in Koosharem, Utah, in 1992, including accounts of alleged mistreatment that Casey reported to his mother while attending the ranch. The article also includes statements from ranch owner Burnell Sorenson regarding Casey's behavior, his treatment at the ranch, and the decision to ultimately end his placement.