(SL) – Simone Biles is the latest gymnast to come out and say she was sexually abused by imprisoned former U.S. gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar.
Biles, who won four gold medals and five medals overall at the 2016 Olympics, said on Twitter that she is one of”many survivors” to be abused by Nassar, who also worked at Michigan State. Biles joins fellow gymnasts Aly Raisman, Gabby Douglas and McKayla Maroney to come out against Nassar.
The revelation came in a long statement on her social media accounts — one day before a week long sentencing hearing where Nassar will hear from nearly 100 victims
“Most of you know me as a happy, giggly and energetic girl. But lately…I’ve felt a bit broken and the more I try to shut off the voice in my head the louder it screams,” Biles wrote in a #metoo post. “I am not afraid to tell my story anymore. I too am one of the many survivors that was sexually abused by Larry Nassar,” she continued. “For too long I have asked myself, ‘Was I too naive? Was it my fault?’ I now know the answers to those questions. No. No, it was not my fault. No, I will not and should not carry the guilt that belongs to Larry Nassar, USAG [USA Gymnastics], and others.”
USA Gymnastics and Michigan University are accused of giving Nassar unfettered access to vulnerable girls and women, ignoring signs or complaints of sexual misconduct, and trying to silence victims.
Nassar, 54, pleaded guilty in Ingham County, Michigan, to sexually assaulting seven girls, but the judge is allowing all of his accusers to speak. More than half of those who have filed complaints are expected to give a statement. Nassar is facing a sentencing hearing today.
He’s already serving 60 years for child pornography and assault.
