Larry Nassar Victims Reach $100 Million Settlement with U.S. Justice Department

The U.S. Justice Department has agreed to pay approximately $100 million to settle claims with about 100 people who say they were sexually assaulted by former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar. The settlement, which was first reported by The Wall Street Journal, has not been finalized yet and no money has been paid.

Nassar, who is currently serving decades in prison for assaulting female athletes under the guise of medical treatment, was a sports doctor at Michigan State University and USA Gymnastics. His victims include decorated Olympians Simone Biles, Aly Raisman, and McKayla Maroney.

Lawyers for the victims filed claims against the government, focusing on a 15-month period beginning in 2015 when FBI agents in Indianapolis and Los Angeles had knowledge of allegations against Nassar but apparently took no action. An internal Justice Department investigation found that FBI agents mishandled the abuse allegations, allowing Nassar's assaults to continue until his arrest in fall 2016.

Why this matters: The settlement brings a measure of justice and compensation to Nassar's victims, who endured years of abuse and trauma. It also highlights serious failings by the FBI in its handling of the case, underscoring the need for accountability and reform in how law enforcement agencies respond to sexual abuse allegations.

FBI Director Christopher Wray acknowledged the bureau's failures during testimony before a Senate committee in 2021. "I'm especially sorry that there were people at the FBI who had their own chance to stop this monster back in 2015 and failed, and that is inexcusable," Wray said. "It never should have happened, and we're doing everything in our power to make sure it never happens again."

The $100 million settlement with the Justice Department resolves the final legal claim brought by Nassar's victims. In total, the settlements concerning Nassar have now reached nearly $1 billion, including $500 million from Michigan State University and $380 million from USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

Key Takeaways

• DOJ to pay $100M to settle claims by ~100 Nassar abuse victims
• Nassar, a former USA Gymnastics doctor, assaulted female athletes
• FBI agents mishandled abuse allegations, allowing Nassar's assaults to continue
• Settlement highlights need for accountability and reform in law enforcement
• Total Nassar settlements now nearly $1B, including $500M from Michigan State