US Olympic Athlete Abuse

In the world of Olympic sports, where the pursuit of excellence and the celebration of human potential are paramount, sexual abuse has been a hidden yet persistent issue. Survivors of such abuse within the Olympics often face unique challenges and barriers to coming forward. Their careers and dreams are on the line, and abusive coaches, medical team doctors, and officials often use this to pressure survivors into silence.

If you are a survivor of abuse in Olympic sports, know that you are not alone. Your bravery in stepping forward can be a powerful force for healing and change, both for yourself and the future of athletics.

At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we understand the complexity and power dynamics of US Olympic sexual abuse cases. We're committed to providing empathetic legal support and guidance while you hold your abuser and the Olympic committees accountable for the trauma you suffered. Your voice matters, and we are here to amplify it.

Our firm has a longstanding commitment to confronting sexual abuse in Olympic sports. We've been at the forefront of legal actions against major sports organizations, including USA Swimming and United States Taekwondo, as well as numerous other sports organizations. Our involvement has brought justice to many survivors and has been pivotal in initiating changes in laws and regulations to protect future athletes.

We understand the dynamics of power and trust that define the athlete-coach relationship, and we're dedicated to protecting Olympic athletes whose coaches have violated that trust.

Here are some of our most notable Olympic sexual abuse cases:

• Multi-victim sexual abuse claim in Colorado against United States Taekwondo (“USAT”) on behalf of several athletes were sexually abused and molested by former gold medal athlete Steven Lopez and his brother and Olympic coach Jean Lopez
• Sexual abuse case in Southern California on behalf of swimming national record holder Ariana Kukors-Smith, who was sexually molested by her former Olympic coach, Sean Hutchison.
• Sexual abuse claim in Indiana involving former silver medalist, national champion, and All-American Terin Humphrey, who was sexually abused as a teenager by notorious former Olympic physician Larry Nassar.
• California sexual abuse claims filed on behalf of several former female swimmers sexually abused as children by former silver medalist swimmer and Olympic coach Mitch Ivey, Andy King, and Don King
• Sexual abuse case in Southern California against the United States Olympic Committee (“USOC”) and USAT

Sexual abuse in Olympic sports is a complex issue. It often remains unchecked and is sometimes intentionally obscured to protect the reputation of organizations. At its core, it is a gross violation of trust in situations with a large power imbalance.

In Olympic sports, the athlete-coach relationship is central. Coaches are often seen as authoritative figures, holding significant sway over an athlete's career and prospects. This imbalance of power can create an environment where abuse is possible. Olympic athletes depend on their coaches and trainers to help them achieve their dreams. Sexual predators exploit this vulnerability and pressure them into silence.

The drive to achieve Olympic glory involves intense pressure and competition. Athletes dedicated to their sport may fear that speaking out against abuse could jeopardize their careers, relationships, and dreams. This high-pressure environment can make athletes more susceptible to abuse and less likely to report it.

Olympic sports organizations have, at times, been reluctant to address sexual abuse allegations, prioritizing their reputation and success over the well-being of athletes. This dismissal stems from a desire to maintain a positive public image and avoid scandal, often leading to a culture of silence and inaction. In some cases, organizations have actively concealed abuse, choosing to protect abusers rather than support survivors.

At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we're committed to shedding light on these hidden abuses, challenging the systems that allow them to persist. By understanding these dynamics, we can better advocate for survivors and push for necessary reforms.

If you are a survivor of sexual abuse in Olympic sports, Cerri, Boskovich & Allard is here to support you. Your courage in coming forward deserves the utmost respect and a committed legal team that understands your journey. Together, we can work towards healing and holding responsible parties accountable. Contact us to discuss your situation in a safe and confidential environment. Your bravery can inspire change, and we are here to help you through this important journey.