Larry Nassar Scandal
The Larry Nassar Scandal is one of the most high-profile sexual abuse cases in history. Spanning multiple institutions and involving hundreds of victims, this case has been known for its extensive length and complexity. It has brought to light the heinous crimes committed by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, as well as the courage of his many survivors who spoke out against him. This article will explore the history and details of this case, how it affected survivors and their families, how justice was eventually served in this case, and what lessons can be learned from such a tragedy.
The First Survivor to Publicly Come Forward
Rachael Denhollander’s story is a testament to courage, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. As the first survivor to publicly accuse Larry Nassar of sexual abuse in 2016, Denhollander shattered the suffocating silence surrounding Nassar’s predatory behavior. Her decision to speak out opened the floodgates for hundreds of other victims to share their own painful experiences. Denhollander’s journey to justice was marked by immense challenges, as she faced skepticism, victim-blaming, and a culture that often prioritized reputation over truth. Despite the obstacles, she fearlessly pressed forward, advocating for institutional change and accountability. Her powerful impact extended beyond the courtroom; Denhollander’s advocacy inspired a nationwide conversation about the prevalence of abuse in sports and other fields, leading to reforms aimed at better-safeguarding athletes. Rachael Denhollander’s bravery and tenacity not only brought her abuser to justice but also ignited a transformative movement for survivors of sexual abuse everywhere. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and strength, reminding us that speaking truth to power can catalyze change and pave the way for a safer, more just world.
The Fierberg National Law Group is proud to have Rachael Denhollander join the firm, bringing very personal knowledge of the impact on survivors and the steps needed for reform.
Early Career, Allegations of Sexual Abuse, and Criminal Charges
The first allegations of sexual abuse against Nassar emerged in 1994 when a gymnast, who would later become an Olympic medalist, claimed that Nassar had begun sexually abusing her. This abuse allegedly continued for six years. In the years that followed, more victims came forward with similar allegations.
Despite these accusations, Nassar’s career continued to flourish. In 1996, he attended the Olympic Games in Atlanta as the national medical coordinator for USA Gymnastics. He also completed his family practice residency at St. Lawrence Hospital in Lansing, Michigan, and became a team physician and assistant professor at Michigan State University (MSU).
Throughout his career, there were multiple instances where concerns about Nassar’s behavior were raised but not appropriately addressed. In 1997, a parent raised concerns to John Geddert, Nassar’s colleague, but Geddert failed to notify the police. A student-athlete at MSU also reported concerns about Nassar to trainers and coaches, but the university failed to take any action.
In 1998, another student-athlete at MSU reported concerns about Nassar, yet the university once again failed to take action. This pattern of negligence would continue for years, allowing Nassar to continue his abusive behavior unchecked.
In 2016, the Indianapolis Star published an investigation into USA Gymnastics and its handling of sexual abuse complaints, bringing widespread attention to the issue. Former gymnast Rachael Denhollander filed a criminal complaint against Nassar with MSU Police, alleging that she had been sexually abused by him in 2000 when she was just 15 years old.
In August 2016, MSU relieved Nassar of his clinical and patient duties, and in September of that year, he was fired from his position as an associate professor at MSU. In November 2016, Nassar was charged with three counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct with a person under 13 in Ingham County.
In December 2016, Nassar was indicted on federal child pornography charges. The investigation revealed that he had received or attempted to receive images of child pornography. In 2017, Nassar pleaded guilty to three child pornography charges and was later sentenced to 60 years in federal prison.
The consequences of Nassar’s actions extended beyond his criminal conviction. In January 2017, 18 victims filed a federal lawsuit against Nassar, MSU, USA Gymnastics, and Gedderts’ Twistars Gymnastics club, alleging sexual assault, battery, molestation, and harassment. The lawsuit revealed a disturbing pattern of failures by MSU and others to respond to and address complaints about Nassar’s behavior.
As the legal proceedings continued, more victims came forward, including high-profile gymnasts like McKayla Maroney, Aly Raisman, and Gabby Douglas. In November 2017, Nassar pleaded guilty to seven counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct in Ingham County Circuit Court, as part of a plea agreement. The agreement included a minimum sentence of 25 to 40 years in prison.
Lessons Learned and Calls for Change
The Larry Nassar scandal has shed light on the need for greater safeguards and accountability in sports organizations. It has prompted a reevaluation of the culture surrounding gymnastics and a push for reforms to protect athletes from abuse. As a result of the scandal, there have been changes in leadership at USA Gymnastics, MSU, and other organizations involved.
The survivors of Nassar’s abuse have become advocates for change, speaking out about their experiences and pushing for systemic reforms. Their bravery has inspired a movement to prioritize the safety and well-being of athletes and to hold individuals and institutions accountable for their actions.