Teen with Autism Alleges Abuse at Birmingham Treatment Center

Lawsuit claims facility failed to protect child from physical and sexual assault.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 12:07pm

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A 17-year-old boy with autism has filed a lawsuit alleging he was physically and sexually assaulted while in the care of a residential treatment provider in Birmingham, Alabama. The lawsuit claims the facility, Glenwood Inc., failed to protect the child from severe abuse and did not properly report the incidents to authorities as required by law.

Why it matters

The case highlights concerns about the safety and oversight of residential treatment facilities for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. It raises questions about whether these facilities are adequately protecting vulnerable patients in their care.

The details

According to the lawsuit, the teen, identified as Z.C., was admitted to Glenwood in June 2025. On September 9, 2025, a staff member allegedly grabbed Z.C., slammed him against a wall, and threw him to the ground, causing a fractured collarbone. Later, Z.C. told his mother he had been sexually assaulted multiple times by an undisclosed staff member, including during an outing to Jurassic Quest. A medical exam found physical evidence consistent with sexual trauma. The lawsuit claims Glenwood failed to promptly report the abuse to authorities.

  • On September 9, 2025, a staff member allegedly assaulted Z.C., causing a fractured collarbone.
  • On October 20, 2025, Z.C. told his mother he had been sexually assaulted multiple times by a staff member.
  • In late 2025, a forensic medical exam found physical evidence consistent with sexual trauma.

The players

Z.C.

A 17-year-old boy with autism who was a patient at Glenwood Inc.

Glenwood Inc.

A residential treatment provider in Birmingham, Alabama that operates programs for children with autism and other developmental and behavioral disabilities.

Tommy James

An attorney representing Z.C.'s mother in the lawsuit against Glenwood Inc.

Jeremy Knowles

An attorney representing Z.C.'s mother in the lawsuit against Glenwood Inc.

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What they’re saying

“The allegations here are not about a minor lapse; they describe a complete failure to protect a child who depended on this facility for his safety.”

— Tommy James, Attorney

“We filed this lawsuit because a vulnerable child was failed by the very system designed to protect him. Accountability is the only way to make sure this never happens again.”

— Jeremy Knowles, Attorney

What’s next

The Birmingham Police Department's investigation into the alleged abuse is still ongoing.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for robust oversight and accountability measures in residential treatment facilities serving children with autism and other developmental disabilities to ensure their safety and well-being.