A former USA Gymnastics doctor and Michigan State University professor has been charged with criminal sexual assault. Dr. Larry Nassar was arraigned today Tuesday on three counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the first degree for allegedly abusing a girl under 13 years old. If convicted, Nassar faces up to life in prison.
Attorney General Bill Schuette’s office is prosecuting the case with the Michigan State Police Department handling the investigation.
During a press conference, Schuette said, “Dr. Nasser stole this young lady’s childhood, and as a father it breaks my heart to see that. And these are predatory acts, criminal acts that are just outrageous.”
While the current charges stem from one victim, Schuette said there may be more charges filed in the future.
“The intensity of this joint investigation by the Department of Attorney General and MSU PD is a reflection of the significance of this case and the enormity of this case and the – this is the tip of the iceberg,” he said.
During the press conference, MSU Police Chief James Dunlap said that they have received about 50 complaints against Nassar so far. Schuette encouraged other victims to come forward saying, “It is our intent, all of us here, all of us here, that the filing of these charges will provide hope to other victims of this predator, and we are hopeful that other victims may step forward.”
Allegations against Nassar first became public in September when the IndyStar published an article about two former gymnasts accusing Nassar of sexual abuse.
