Indianapolis, Indiana – The United States government and Larry Nassar’s victims are on the verge of reaching a settlement regarding claims that the FBI mishandled investigations into allegations of abuse against the former USA Gymnastics physician. A source familiar with the negotiations disclosed that discussions are ongoing to finalize the amount, with CNN reporting the possibility of further negotiations.
The settlement, if agreed upon, will be funded by the Justice Department and will benefit approximately 100 victims, including renowned Olympians such as Simone Biles, Aly Raisman, and McKayla Maroney. The Justice Department, FBI, and attorneys for the victims have all refrained from commenting on the matter.
Reports of the potential settlement were initially published by the Wall Street Journal. A critical inspector general report released in July 2021 revealed the FBI’s negligence in properly addressing the accusations against Nassar in 2015, allowing him to continue his abuse. Despite some FBI personnel being dismissed or retiring, the Department of Justice opted not to prosecute anyone in connection with the case.
During a Congressional hearing, FBI Director Christopher Wray condemned the mishandling of the Nassar case by agents, deeming it unacceptable. He and Attorney General Merrick Garland assured Congress in subsequent years that necessary steps would be taken to prevent such failures in the future.
The collective settlements involving Nassar have now summed up to nearly $1 billion. In one notable agreement, Michigan State University agreed to a $500 million settlement with more than 300 victims, with allegations of negligence on the part of the institution. Various other organizations in the gymnastics community have also had to address substantial settlements and implement reforms to safeguard against future abuses.
Nassar, the disgraced physician, is currently serving several prison sentences for his offenses. His victims have relentlessly pursued justice and accountability, marking a significant milestone in the fight against abuse in the sports community.