In a case that spans several decades and multiple continents, Dr. Larry Nassar, a doctor at Michigan State University, was arrested November 21, 2016 on charges that he sexually assaulted minors. The physician also acted as team physician for the USA Women’s Gymnastics team for more than 16 years, over four different Olympic Games. According to a CNN Crime & Justice report, Dr. Nassar faces three counts of sexual assault against female children under the age of 13 years old. If convicted, he could be sentenced to life in prison for his sex crimes.
Michigan State University Police Team Up with State of Michigan
University law enforcement initiated an investigation into the accusations against Dr. Nassar in partnership with the Attorney General’s Office. The charges became public in early October when authorities announced that they were reviewing numerous allegations of sexual assault. As numerous complexities developed in the case, university police turned the entire investigation over to state officials. Because legal issues cross over multiple jurisdictions and states, authorities determined that the Michigan Department of Attorney General could more effectively investigate and pursue charges against Dr. Nassar.
Background of the Case
According to initial court filings, the first incident of sexual assault occurred in 1998. The accuser complained that Dr. Nassar abused her at his home under the guise of providing proper medical treatment. She was a minor at the time, but is an adult now. The victim was never a gymnast or member of the crew team, though police continue to investigate to determine whether any athletes were also sexually assaulted by the accused.
Dr. Nassar formerly held a position as an associate professor at Michigan State University, in the College of Osteopathic Medicine. He also acted as team physician for the women’s gymnastics and crew teams at the university. From the earliest stages of the investigation, he has contested the accusations, claiming that all treatment and procedures he provided to patients were medically proper.
Other Parties Implicated
Coaches for the USA Olympics team have been named in a separate lawsuit, under allegations that they didn’t properly report Dr. Nassar’s sexual abuse of minor females. The same litigation accuses the USA Gymnastics organization of either ignoring or actively concealing incidents of abuse. Through a spokesperson, USA Gymnastics stated that they learned about the allegations and reported them to the FBI; the group also terminated Dr. Nassar’s involvement with all team activities.
San Diego Cases
San Diego authorities aggressively pursue sexual assault cases, especially those involving minor children. The Michigan State University doctor faces life in prison, and there are similarly harsh penalties if you’re convicted of sex crimes in this state. You can improve your chances of a fair result by retaining an attorney to represent you in court and defend your interests. A lawyer with an extensive background in San Diego law and experience in criminal defense will fight for your rights. Please contact qualified criminal attorney in San Diego to discuss the specifics of your case and learn more about your options.
Ozols Law Firm Can Help
Often we get calls on cases very similar to this and we always tell people to explain their entire situation so we can see whatever way we can help. If you have had a criminal issue in the past, feel free to give us a call.
Ozols Law Firm
619 288 8357
8880 Rio San Diego Dr. #22
San Diego, CA
92108
The post Former USA Olympics Doctor Arrested for Sexual Assault Against Minors appeared first on Criminal Defense Attorney San Diego - Ozols Law Firm.