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Victims of Disgraced Gymnastics Doctor Awarded $138.7 Million in Justice Department Settlement
In a major development for the survivors of Larry Nassar’s abuse, the U.S. Department of Justice has agreed to a settlement totaling $138.7 million, aimed at compensating the victims of the disgraced former gymnastics doctor. This settlement follows allegations of negligence against the FBI, criticized for its lackadaisical approach to investigating Nassar in 2015 and 2016, despite being presented with credible claims of his misconduct.
With this latest payout, the cumulative financial compensation awarded to Nassar’s victims from various parties surpasses the billion-dollar mark, marking a grim milestone in what has become one of the most shocking and extensive abuse scandals in sports history.
Larry Nassar, who once served as a respected physician for USA Gymnastics and Michigan State University, is currently serving multiple jail sentences that, collectively, span several lifetimes. His convictions on charges of sexual assault and possession of child pornography have sealed his fate behind bars, effectively ensuring he spends the rest of his life in prison.
This financial settlement, while a significant acknowledgment of the FBI’s failure to act upon initial allegations against Nassar, represents only a fraction of the broader legal and moral reckoning still ongoing. Institutions associated with Nassar have faced intense scrutiny and criticism for their roles in enabling his abuse or failing to stop him sooner, leading to substantial settlements with the victims.
As the legal and emotional aftermath of Nassar’s crimes continues to unfold, this settlement serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impacts of his actions and the critical importance of vigilance, accountability, and support for survivors within the sports community and beyond.