The Justice Department is close to reaching a settlement with sexual assault survivors of former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar over the FBI’s initial failures in investigating the case, potentially resulting in tens of millions of dollars for the victims. More than 150 women and girls have accused Nassar of sexual abuse over a 20-year period, with over a dozen survivors filing claims against the government for negligence. The settlement will not be confirmed until a deal is reached in court, with negotiations currently ongoing.
Nassar, who was convicted of sexually abusing young athletes under the guise of medical treatment, was sentenced to up to 175 years in prison. In 2021, victims of Nassar reached a $380 million settlement with USA Gymnastics, the US Olympic Committee, and their insurers. In 2022, the DOJ initiated settlement discussions with sexual assault survivors who had filed claims against the FBI for $130 million, alleging that the bureau’s field offices in Indianapolis and Los Angeles failed to properly act on sexual abuse allegations against Nassar. The lawsuit was based on an inspector general’s report that found agents violated FBI policies by making false statements and not properly documenting survivors’ complaints.
The negotiations for a settlement with sexual assault survivors of Larry Nassar are in their final stages, with potential financial compensation for the victims being discussed. Survivors who filed claims under the Federal Torts Claims Act, which allows individuals to sue the US government for negligence, are being represented by a law firm. The Justice Department has not commented on the matter, and a final settlement will only be confirmed once an agreement is reached in court. The Wall Street Journal initially reported on the ongoing talks.
The case of Larry Nassar, who was convicted of sexually abusing numerous individuals under the guise of medical treatment, has sparked legal action against various entities involved in the investigation. In addition to Nassar receiving a lengthy prison sentence, victims have reached a significant settlement with USA Gymnastics, the US Olympic Committee, and their insurers. The Department of Justice has also engaged in settlement discussions with survivors who filed claims against the FBI for alleged negligence in handling sexual abuse allegations against Nassar. The survivors’ claims were based on a report that found FBI agents violated policy by making false statements and inadequately documenting complaints.
The potential settlement with sexual assault survivors of Larry Nassar highlights the ongoing legal repercussions stemming from the case. The negotiations involve addressing the failures of the FBI in investigating allegations against Nassar, which impacted the survivors and their ability to seek justice. The outcome of the settlement discussions will ultimately determine the financial compensation provided to the victims for the harm they have endured. As the talks approach their final stages, the Justice Department and the survivors’ representatives are working towards a resolution that will hopefully bring some measure of closure and accountability for the survivors of Nassar’s abuse.
