There has been a lot of talk lately about sexual abuse in Hollywood. And it’s about time. As horrible a topic as it is to discuss, it’s one that has deserved attention long before now. Sadly, there is a growing number of women in the entertainment industry who are coming out and admitting that they have, at one point or the other, been sexually abused by a prominent member of the business.
Of course, sexual abuse is not exclusive to the entertainment business alone. It is a highly unfortunate reality faced by people worldwide. Women and children, as we all know, are especially susceptible. As we discovered last week, numerous USA Olympic gymnasts have endured sexual abuse at the hands of their one-time team doctor.
As reported by FirstPost.com, Larry Nassar has pleaded guilty to three felony counts of first degree criminal sexual conduct in Michigan’s Eaton County Circuit Court. The week prior, Nassar pleaded guilty to seven felony counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct. The 54 year-old, who served as the USA gymnastics physician through four Olympic Games, had previously denied any wrongdoing.
Apparently, Nassar is guilty of a lot more than the ten counts he pleaded guilty to. However, as FirstPost.com explains, “Wednesday’s guilty pleas put an end to criminal sexual conduct charges brought by the Michigan Attorney General’s office against Nassar in Eaton and Ingham counties” even though there were no less than 125 reported victims.
On January 12th, all 125 victims and their parents will be allowed to give victim impact statements during the Ingham County sentencing hearing. The Eaton County sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 31st. As you may have guessed, a long prison sentence for Nassar is looming. As part of his plea deal, a minimum sentence of 25 years may be imposed, although the judge could set the minimum as high as 40 years.
Among Nassar’s victims are highly decorated Olympic gymnasts, Aly Raisman and Gabby Douglas. Both are three-times Olympic gold medalists. Raisman, in fact, told her story on CBS News’ “60 Minutes”.
Nassar carried out his crimes under the guise of medical treatment and his misconduct didn’t victimize Olympians alone. He was also the team physician for the Michigan State University gymnastics and women’s crew teams. Nassar also served as an associate professor at MSU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine.
According to FirstPost.com, “during the 22 November hearing, Nassar apologized and said it was time for his victims to begin healing.” At Allegiant Experts, we’re heartbroken to hear of how many victims Nassar had. Sexual misconduct has impacted far too many women all over America and the world for far too long. Most certainly, it’s a crime that deserves a severe punishment.
UPDATE: On December 7th, Dr. Larry Nassar was sentenced to 60 years in prison.
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