Larry Nassar

File:Larry Nassar.jpg

Larry Nassar

Larry Nassar

Larry Nassar (born August 16, 1963) is a former USA Gymnastics national team doctor and an osteopathic physician at Michigan State University. He is known for being convicted of multiple sex crimes, including the sexual assault of hundreds of young athletes under the guise of medical treatment.

Early Life and Education

Nassar was born in Farmington Hills, Michigan. He attended North Farmington High School and later graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in kinesiology. He earned his medical degree from the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Career

Nassar began working with USA Gymnastics in the 1980s and became the national team doctor in 1996. He was also a faculty member at Michigan State University, where he worked as an associate professor and a team physician.

Sexual Abuse Scandal

In 2015, allegations of sexual abuse against Nassar began to surface. Investigations revealed that Nassar had been abusing young athletes for decades under the pretense of providing medical treatment. The abuse took place at various locations, including the Károlyi Ranch, the USA Gymnastics National Team Training Center, and Michigan State University.

In 2017, Nassar was sentenced to 60 years in federal prison for possession of child pornography. In 2018, he received additional sentences of 40 to 175 years and 40 to 125 years in Michigan state prison for sexual assault charges.

Impact and Reforms

The Nassar scandal led to significant changes within USA Gymnastics and Michigan State University. Several high-ranking officials resigned or were fired, and both institutions implemented new policies to protect athletes from abuse. The scandal also prompted broader discussions about the safety and well-being of athletes in competitive sports.

Legal Proceedings

Nassar faced multiple legal proceedings, including federal charges for child pornography and state charges for sexual assault. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to a total of 300 years in prison. The legal proceedings also included testimonies from over 150 survivors during the sentencing hearings.

Public Reaction

The public reaction to the Nassar scandal was one of outrage and disbelief. The survivors, many of whom were prominent gymnasts, received widespread support. The case brought attention to the issue of sexual abuse in sports and led to increased advocacy for survivors' rights.

See Also

• USA Gymnastics sex abuse scandal
• Michigan State University
• Károlyi Ranch
• Sexual abuse in sports