DOJ Settles $138.7M With Nassar Victims as FBI Faulted Over Failure to Investigate

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has reached a $138.7 million settlement with over 100 victims who accused disgraced former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar of sexual assault while the FBI failed to investigate their claims. More than 150 women and girls, including Olympic athletes, have alleged that Nassar sexually abused them under the guise of medical treatments. The DOJ acknowledged its failures in a scathing inspector general’s report which found senior officials at the Indianapolis field office failed to respond appropriately when allegations against Nassar were made and violated multiple FBI policies during their investigative activity, causing further harm to over 100 children who could have been spared if action had been taken earlier. Attorney John Manly, representing victims of Nassar, called the settlement “imperfect,” highlighting that there are still agents responsible for mishandling the investigation and not being held accountable. In addition to this recent settlement, survivors also reached a $380 million settlement with USA Gymnastics, US Olympic Committee, and their insurers in 2021, while DOJ began negotiations for further compensation last year.