The Justice Department has reached a $138.7 million settlement with over 100 victims of Larry Nassar, the disgraced former USA Gymnastics team doctor, over the FBI’s initial failures in investigating the sexual assault case. More than 150 women and girls, including Olympic athletes, alleged that Nassar sexually abused them under the guise of performing medical treatments. Nassar, who was convicted of sexually abusing young athletes, was sentenced to up to 175 years in prison in Michigan.
Acting associate attorney general Benjamin Mizer stated that Nassar had abused his position for decades, betraying the trust of those under his care while avoiding accountability. The settlements with the victims won’t undo the harm inflicted by Nassar, but they aim to provide critical support for the victims to continue their healing process. The Justice Department acknowledged its failures in a scathing inspector general’s report that found senior officials in the FBI Indianapolis field office had not responded adequately to the Nassar allegations.
In 2021, victims of Nassar reached a $380 million settlement with USA Gymnastics, the US Olympic Committee, and their insurers. The DOJ offered to begin settlement discussions with sexual assault survivors in 2022. The justice system’s handling of the Nassar case has brought attention to the need for improved investigative procedures and accountability for those in positions of power who abuse their authority. The victims’ pursuit of justice has gained momentum through settlement agreements and increased awareness around the issue of sexual abuse in sports.
The outcome of the settlements with Nassar’s victims underscores the importance of taking allegations of abuse seriously from the outset and providing support for survivors to heal from their traumatic experiences. The Justice Department’s acknowledgment of its failures in the investigation of Nassar’s case highlights the need for reforms to prevent similar oversights in the future. The settlements also serve as a form of justice for the victims, recognizing the harm they have suffered and providing financial support for them to move forward with their lives.
The collaboration between the Justice Department, victims, and other organizations involved in the settlement agreements demonstrates a commitment to holding perpetrators of sexual abuse accountable and supporting those affected by their actions. The ongoing efforts to address the systemic issues that allowed Nassar to abuse his position of trust reflect a commitment to preventing similar abuses in the future. Overall, the settlements with Nassar’s victims represent a step towards achieving justice, accountability, and healing for those impacted by his crimes.
