The Justice Department is nearing a settlement with sexual assault survivors of former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar due to the FBI’s initial failures in investigating the case. The settlement could result in tens of millions of dollars for the victims, as more than 150 women and girls have alleged that Nassar sexually abused them over a 20-year period. More than a dozen survivors have filed claims against the government for negligence in the investigation, prompting negotiations between the Justice Department and the survivors’ legal representatives. A final settlement will not be confirmed until it is approved by the court.
Larry Nassar, who was convicted of sexually abusing young athletes under the guise of medical treatment, was sentenced to up to 175 years in prison in a Michigan state court. In 2021, victims of Nassar reached a $380 million settlement with USA Gymnastics, the US Olympic Committee, and their insurers. In 2022, the Department of Justice initiated settlement discussions with the sexual assault survivors who had filed claims against the FBI totaling $130 million. These survivors alleged that the FBI field offices in Indianapolis and Los Angeles had failed to properly handle sexual abuse allegations against Nassar. Their claims were based on an inspector general’s report that found agents had violated FBI policies by making false statements and failing to appropriately document survivors’ complaints.
The negotiations for the settlement with sexual assault survivors of Larry Nassar are ongoing, with the potential for a significant financial outcome for the victims. The survivors, who have been vocal about seeking justice for the harm they endured, are represented by legal counsel who have pursued claims against the US government under the Federal Torts Claims Act. The Justice Department has not commented on the matter, but a deal is expected to be reached in court once the settlement terms are finalized. The Wall Street Journal initially reported the latest development in the talks, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address the failures in investigating Nassar’s sexual abuse.
The DOJ’s offer to begin settlement discussions with the sexual assault survivors signifies a significant step towards providing redress for the harm caused by Larry Nassar’s actions and the FBI’s mishandling of the case. The survivors’ claims against the government for negligence in investigating Nassar’s crimes underscore the systemic failures that allowed his abuse to continue unchecked for years. The proposed settlement could provide a measure of accountability and compensation for the survivors who have bravely come forward to seek justice and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. As the negotiations progress, the survivors and their legal representatives remain committed to ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are upheld throughout the settlement process.
The potential for a multimillion-dollar settlement with sexual assault survivors of Larry Nassar reflects the magnitude of the harm caused by his actions and the failures of the FBI to properly investigate the allegations against him. The survivors who have filed claims against the government are seeking justice for the abuses they suffered and the systemic failures that allowed Nassar to exploit vulnerable young athletes for his own gratification. The DOJ’s willingness to engage in settlement discussions with the survivors demonstrates a recognition of the need to address the harm caused by Nassar and the importance of holding those accountable for their complicity in enabling his abuse. As the negotiations proceed, the survivors and their legal representatives remain focused on achieving a just outcome that acknowledges the pain and suffering they endured and provides a path towards healing and closure.
