The review turned up hundreds of alleged incidents — documented in police reports or local courts — of sexual abuse of the gymnasts “at the hands of their coaches, gym owners and other adults working in gymnastics. That’s a rate of one every 20 days. And it’s likely an undercount,” the report chillingly concluded.
Previously, IndyStar reported that officials at USA Gymnastics — the high-profile Olympic sport’s national governing body based in Indianapolis — failed to alert police to allegations of sexual abuse and even chose to hide some complaints.
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In a statement responding to IndyStar’s questions, USA Gymnastics said:
“Nothing is more important to USA Gymnastics, the Board of Directors and CEO Steve Penny than protecting athletes, which requires sustained vigilance by everyone — coaches, athletes, parents, administrators and officials. We are saddened when any athlete has been harmed in the course of his or her gymnastics career.”
At the heart of IndyStar’s report this week:
— Alleged victims’ stories frequently have been treated with skepticism.
— Gym owners are hesitant to report allegations of abuse for fear it will affect their businesses.
— Coaches accused of abuse might be fired but can simply move on to other gyms because they aren’t tracked.
After IndyStar’s August report, USA Gymnastics hired an ex-prosecutor to evaluate the organization’s bylaws and offer advice on how to strengthen its policies.
