2 women accuse ex-USA Gymnastics doctor of sexual abuse
A former USA Gymnastics doctor has been accused of sexual abuse by two former gymnasts, one being a former Olympic medalist, reports Mark Alesia, Marisa Kwiatkowski, and Tim Evans of The Indianapolis Star.
Two claims against Dr. Larry G. Nassar, who served as USA Gymnastics' team physician during four Olympic Games, were filed within the last two weeks. One woman filed a civil lawsuit Thursday in California, while the other - Rachel Denhollander - filed a complaint with police two weeks ago in Michigan.
Both women provided detailed accounts of abuse that closely resembled each other. Nassar's lawyer, Matthew Borgula, stated Nassar "emphatically" denies any wrongdoing. Nassar resigned from his position as team physician in September 2015.
"Dr. Nassar is no longer affiliated with USA Gymnastics. Upon learning of athlete concerns, USA Gymnastics immediately notified law enforcement," USA Gymnastics said in a statement. "Since then, we have cooperated fully with the law enforcement agency, including refraining from making further statements or taking any other action that might interfere with the agency's investigation. We are grateful to the athletes for coming forward to share their concerns."
Both women came forward after reading The IndyStar's investigation of executives within USA Gymnastics failing to report instances of sexual abuse.
"Over the last 16 years, I've realized I have a responsibility, and the question about whether or not to speak publicly cannot center around what's easy for me," Denhollander said. "This isn't something I want to do."
Denhollander alleges that over five treatments, Nassar became more aggressive and forced himself upon her. Nassar's attorney stated his client has never engaged in procedures that resulted in the actions described by Denhollander.
There are no other records known to The IndyStar regarding Nassar engaging in sexual abuse.
John Geddert, the 2012 USA Olympic team head coach, commended Nassar on his professionalism to The IndyStar.
"He's an extremely professional physician," Geddert said. "Very competent and goes above and beyond the call of duty in treating athletes. He's probably one of the most respected gymnastics professionals I've ever had to deal with."