## Failure to Investigate: The DOJ Settlement
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has reached a significant settlement with the victims of former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar, amounting to $138.7 million. This settlement is in response to the FBI’s initial failure to adequately investigate sexual abuse allegations against Nassar. The DOJ’s acting Associate Attorney General, Benjamin C. Mizer, expressed the gravity of Nassar’s actions, stating, “For decades, Lawrence Nassar abused his position, betraying the trust of those under his care and medical supervision while skirting accountability.” Mizer emphasized that these allegations should have been taken seriously from the beginning and highlighted the hope that the settlements would provide critical support for the healing process of Nassar’s victims.
The settlement resolves 139 claims against the FBI and ensures that the victims receive compensation for the harm they have suffered. It is a step towards acknowledging the pain inflicted upon these individuals and offering them some form of restitution. However, it is important to note that no amount of money can fully undo the trauma caused by Nassar’s actions.
## Nassar’s Reign of Abuse
Larry Nassar’s abuse extended to over 300 female gymnasts who were under his care. He manipulated his position as a doctor to sexually abuse these young athletes, disguising his actions as medical treatment. Shockingly, more than 150 women and girls had the courage to speak out publicly against him, shedding light on the extent of his crimes.
Nassar’s heinous acts did not go unpunished. In 2018, he pleaded guilty to seven counts of criminal sexual conduct and received a sentence of 40 to 175 years in prison. Additionally, he had previously been sentenced to 60 years in federal prison on child pornography charges. Despite these convictions, Nassar continued to appeal his sentence, hoping for a lighter punishment. However, in June 2022, the Michigan Supreme Court rejected his final appeal, ensuring that justice prevailed.
## The FBI’s Failure to Act
The FBI’s negligence in handling the allegations against Nassar has been a subject of scrutiny. USA Gymnastics reported the abuse to the FBI’s Indianapolis field office in July 2015, but Nassar was allowed to continue treating athletes at different institutions until September 2016 when his home was finally searched by Michigan State University (MSU) police.
In 2018, the Justice Department initiated an investigation into the FBI’s handling of the Nassar case. The subsequent report, released in 2021 at the request of Nassar’s victims, revealed significant failures on the part of the FBI. Inspector General Michael Horowitz highlighted “fundamental errors” committed by the Indianapolis field office, including the failure to promptly interview gymnasts who had alleged sexual abuse by Nassar. Moreover, the report exposed the office’s lack of communication with other FBI offices and state or local authorities regarding these allegations. It also revealed that misleading information was provided to create the illusion of diligent action in response to the sexual abuse claims.
The findings of this report further emphasize the importance of accountability within law enforcement agencies and highlight the need for improved protocols when handling cases involving sexual abuse. The victims of Nassar’s crimes deserve justice, and it is crucial that institutions responsible for their safety and well-being take immediate and appropriate action when such allegations arise.
In conclusion, the DOJ’s settlement with Nassar’s victims is a significant step towards acknowledging the harm caused by his actions and providing support for their ongoing healing process. However, it is essential to remember that no amount of money can fully compensate for the trauma endured. The failure of the FBI to adequately investigate these allegations highlights the need for improved protocols and accountability within law enforcement agencies. The victims’ bravery in speaking out against Nassar serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of creating a safe environment for athletes and ensuring that those who commit such heinous acts are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.