The Justice Department is currently in the final stages of negotiating a settlement with sexual assault survivors of former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar regarding the FBI's initial failures in investigating the case. This settlement could potentially result in tens of millions of dollars being awarded to the victims.
Over 150 women and girls have come forward with allegations of sexual abuse by Nassar spanning a period of 20 years. More than a dozen survivors have filed claims against the government, citing negligence in the investigation process.
The Justice Department has refrained from providing any comments on the ongoing negotiations. The final settlement will only be confirmed once a deal is reached in court.
The Wall Street Journal was the first to report on the latest developments in the negotiation talks. Nassar, who was convicted of sexually abusing young athletes under the guise of medical treatment, is currently serving a sentence of up to 175 years in prison.
In 2021, victims of Nassar reached a $380 million settlement with USA Gymnastics, the US Olympic Committee, and their insurers. Subsequently, in 2022, the DOJ initiated discussions to begin settlements with the sexual assault survivors.
Thirteen survivors had previously filed claims against the FBI amounting to $130 million. They alleged that the bureau's field offices in Indianapolis and Los Angeles failed to take appropriate action on sexual abuse allegations against Nassar. The lawsuit was largely based on an inspector general's report that revealed agents had violated FBI policies by providing false statements and neglecting to properly document survivors' complaints.
