WAYNE COUNTY, Mich. – Dearborn Heights police are raising serious concerns about the ongoing challenges at the Vista Maria facility for vulnerable youth, where 16-year-old missing teen Tasia Keaton reportedly ran from.
Local 4 is told law enforcement has responded to a growing number of calls in recent years and there are two active investigations regarding allegations of inappropriate behavior by a staff member.
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“In 2024 alone, we’ve had 368 calls for service at that location,” Chief Haidar said. “These include assault and battery, fights, staff being assaulted, and juveniles out of control. Our officers have used force in some cases, and we’ve seen injuries ranging from fingers to backs and ankles. It’s a major drain on our manpower.”
The chief noted a disturbing trend over the past few years. “I really don’t know why it’s gotten worse, but it could be staffing issues or hiring unqualified, untrained individuals. I understand they might be taking on more than they can handle,” he said.
While police and federal agencies are working around the clock to find Tasia, sources say Dearborn Heights Police and Child Protective Services are investigating more troubling allegations involving a former staff member of the facility.
“We received tips about a male staff member potentially involved with juvenile residents,” Chief Haidar confirmed. “There’s a significant age difference, and we’re looking into possible assault.”
In addition to the local investigation, a separate jurisdiction is pursuing another case involving another teenage resident and the same former staff member.
Sources tell Local 4 the staff member was terminated after the facility discovered video of the male staff member picking up one of the teenage female residents in his own vehicle. Later, allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior surfaced, according to police.
The department believes Tasia may have been one of the victims.
“We need to get Tasia back, not just for her safety, but to speak with her about what happened, Chief Haidar said. “If these allegations are true, we will seek a warrant and make sure that individual is held accountable.”
Chief Haidar also said the public’s response has helped in their search.
“We’ve gotten tips that are leading us in the right direction. Hopefully, within the next 48 hours, we’ll have something solid,” he said. “Crime Stoppers tips are amazing. You can be anonymous. Don’t think your tip isn’t worth calling in. Call. Every tip matters.”
Here is a statement from Vista Maria.
At Vista Maria, the safety and well-being of the youth and families we serve is our top priority.
We alerted police immediately on March 14 when Tasia Keaton left our property and initiated the search for her. We have been working with law enforcement ever since to help ensure her safe return. Our hearts go out to her aunt and the rest of her family during this difficult time.
Vista Maria has a 142-year history of providing trauma-informed care, mental health stabilization, foster care services, and education for youth who have experienced trauma.
Anyone with information about this case should contact Dearborn Heights Police at 313-277-6770, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP, or the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678.
Vista Maria
