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Thirteen women have each filed claims against the FBI alleging that the government agency failed to properly investigate former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar.
The claims — filed for a combined total of $130 million — allege the FBI’s handling of Nassar was “a law enforcement failure of historic proportions,’ according to attorney Jamie White.
The former Michigan State sports doctor and longtime USA Gymnastics team doctor pleaded guilty in 2017 to sexually abusing hundreds of girls and women, including Simone Biles, McKayla Maroney, and Aly Raisman. As a result, Nassar is serving up to 175 years in prison.
- Nassar abused all 13 women after July 2015, when the FBI was first alerted.
- It took 17 months after July 2015 for Nassar to be arrested by Michigan State police.
- More claims are expected to be filed.
The FBI has an opportunity to respond to the victims’ claims within six months. A response is warranted before the 13 victims can file a formal lawsuit against the FBI.
Held Accountable
In 2018, Michigan State University agreed to pay $500 million to 332 girls and women abused by Nassar while he worked at the university.
Roughly 500 abuse victims of Larry Nassar reached a $380 million settlement in December 2021 with USA Gymnastics, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, and their insurers. It ended a four-year legal battle and is one of the largest settlements ever for victims of sexual abuse.
