USA Gymnastics Says It’s Not Liable In Doctor’s Sexual Assault Cases
Countless civil suits were reportedly filed against the USA Gymnastics organization following an overwhelming number of sexual assault and abuse allegations against former Olympic Dr. Larry Nassar. The doctor reportedly assaulted more than 130 victims – including Olympic gold medalists, Aly Raisman, Gabby Doulas, and McKayla Maroney – but the organization is reportedly fighting the suits, claiming it is not liable for the doctor’s malpractice, the NY Daily News reports.
Nassar was reportedly sentenced to 60 years in prison for his misconduct, a count for each child. Following his sentencing, the USA Gymnastics released a statement apologizing for the various incidents. “Sorry that any athlete has been harmed during her or his gymnastics career.” That same day, the organization filed a motion to dismiss the civil suit cases filed by 93 former athletes who claimed the organization was negligent in employing such doctor. In documents obtained by the Indy Star, the organization asserts that “while Nassar is liable to the plaintiffs, USAG is not.”
The documents also suggest that “most of the plaintiffs failed to timely assert their claims, and, therefore, their claims are time-barred.” “Most of the plaintiffs allege they were assaulted at MSU, at Twistars or at Nassar’s home — places where Nassar was acting outside of any relationship with USAG,” the motion continues.
John Manly, an attorney for many of the survivors, blasted the USAG for their dismissal, claiming that it was “indicative of their views on” the alleged victims.
Inspired by the MeToo movement, Maroney and Raisman shocked the nation when they released their statements detailing the abuse they endured during various competitions, including the 2012 and 2016 Olympics. Douglas first received backlash after responding to a tweet Raisman wrote regarding sexual assault. Later the gold medalist clarified her statements, along with explaining her own horrific experiences.
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