Larry Nassar, a medical doctor for the US national gymnastics team molested hundreds of women. After striking an agreement with USA Gymnastics, they would earn $380 million.
It brings to an end a five-year legal battle. It erupted in the aftermath of the massive abuse scandal that rocked American sports.
Larry Nassar was found guilty of assaulting gymnasts in 2018. He has a sentence of almost 300 years in prison.
Athletes, including several Olympic medalists, spoke about Nassar’s sexual misconduct.
The settlement is one of the largest in the history of a sexual assault lawsuit. Also, as part of it, USA Gymnastics and the Olympic Committee will give survivors board seats.
“This chapter is finally closed”. Rachael Denhollander wrote on Twitter. She is the first woman to go public with charges against Nassar in 2016.
Hard work of reform and rebuilding can begin
She added: “Now the hard work of reform and rebuilding can begin. Whether or not justice comes and change is made, depends on what happens next.”
Olympic gold medalists Simone Biles, Aly Raisman, and McKayla Maroney are among those who have filed claims.
More than 330 women and girls at USA Gymnastics and Michigan State University have accused Nassar of sexual abuse.
A report likewise released in July on an FBI inquiry found multiple blunders, delays, and cover-ups by FBI agents. Thereby, allowing Nassar’s abuse to continue for several months after the case was first started.
The victims’ lawyer called the deal “historic”. But added that they would continue to “pursue justice” against officials who had failed to investigate.
Lawyer John C Manly paid tribute to the women who had testified publicly. He added: “We prevailed for one simple reason, the courage, and tenacity of the survivors.”
USA Gymnastics declared bankruptcy
As the number of lawsuits against Nassar grew, USA Gymnastics declared bankruptcy in 2018. On Monday, the settlement was affirmed during a hearing in a federal bankruptcy court.
As the number of lawsuits against Nassar grew, USA Gymnastics declared bankruptcy in 2018. On Monday, the settlement was confirmed during a hearing in a federal bankruptcy court.
After the settlement was final, USA Gymnastics issued a statement. Its “deeply sorry for the trauma and pain that survivors have endured as a result of this organization’s actions and inactions”.
“Individually and collectively, survivors have stepped forward with bravery to advocate for enduring change in this sport. We are committed to working with them; and with the entire gymnastics community; to ensure that we continue to prioritize the safety, health, and wellness of our athletes and community above all else,” USA Gymnastics president Li Li Leung said.
Michigan State University also agreed to pay out $500 million in 2018. Then, a total of $880 million in compensation is now going to be upon in instances involving Nassar’s abuse.