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Abuse and Sexual Assault
USA Taekwondo Sexual Abuse
For too long, youth sports governing bodies in the United States, like USA Taekwondo, have failed in their duty to protect the young athletes under their care from sexual abuse by predatory coaches and officials. In particular, USA Taekwondo put profits, publicity, and medals above the safety and well-being of the young athletes it was duty-bound to protect. The organization allowed predators to infiltrate its ranks, giving abusers access to vulnerable children while ignoring red flags and complaints. Coaches and officials exploited their positions of power and trust to groom and sexually abuse athletes. When the brave survivors did come forward, their cries for help were too often met with disbelief, victim-blaming, and institutional indifference.
USA Taekwondo's culture of valuing reputation over child welfare created an environment where abuse could thrive unchecked. The organization shirked its legal and moral responsibility by not implementing rigorous background checks, not believing athletes' reports, quietly dismissing abusive coaches rather than reporting them to authorities, and not providing support for traumatized survivors. These systemic failures allowed the rot of sexual abuse to spread for decades.
Coming forward is a daunting, personal decision. But you no longer have to navigate this path alone or in silence. At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we are here to provide a safe space to share your story, explain your options, and stand as your dedicated advocates. With respect, discretion, and compassion, we will help you seek justice on your terms.
Sexual Abuse Lawsuits Against USA TaekwondoA recent California Supreme Court ruling against USA Taekwondo led by Cerri, Boskovich & Allard has the potential to finally compel these organizations to prioritize athlete safety over medals and profits.
Sexual Abuse Lawsuits Against USA TaekwondoA recent California Supreme Court ruling against USA Taekwondo led by Cerri, Boskovich & Allard has the potential to finally compel these organizations to prioritize athlete safety over medals and profits.
In the case, three former taekwondo athletes sued USA Taekwondo for failing to guard them against sexual abuse by their coach, Marc Gitelman, who was convicted in 2015 of sexually assaulting the young girls. The California Supreme Court ruled that USA Taekwondo had a legal duty to take reasonable steps to protect athletes from this kind of harm.
These organizations can now be held liable if they don't implement proper safeguards against sexual predators gaining access to children through coaching and official positions. In other words, they are held to a higher standard due to their unique position in overseeing their respective sport and due to the prevalence of sexual abuse in sports.
The sexual abuse lawyers at Cerri, Boskovich & Allard have been fighting against sexual abuse in sports for decades and know how to hold National Governing Bodies accountable. They recently represented multiple survivors in a lawsuit against the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC), USA Taekwondo, and brothers Jean and Steven Lopez. This lawsuit alleged that the brothers and the institution enabled the sexual abuse, exploitation, and trafficking of young female athletes over two decades. According to the lawsuit, young female taekwondo athletes were allegedly forced to submit to the sexual demands of Jean and Steven Lopez to maintain their positions on Team USA and pursue their Olympic dreams. If they refused, it was alleged that the Lopez brothers, the USOC, and USA Taekwondo would retaliate by benching, suspending, or removing them from the team.
Survivors Need an Ally On Their Side If you are a survivor of sexual abuse within the youth sports world - you are not alone, and it was not your fault. What happened to you was unacceptable, and those in power were obligated to prevent it. You deserved protection, support, and a safe environment to pursue your athletic dreams.
The institutions that failed you must now be held accountable. But coming forward is daunting, especially against entities with extensive resources and high-powered lawyers ready to attack accusers' credibility. Fortunately, there are legal advocates ready to stand by your side.
Cerri, Boskovich & Allard is committed to providing a safe, confidential space for survivors to tell their stories. We believe in you and want to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Our experienced, compassionate California sexual abuse attorneys will guide you through the process at your own pace.
We know the wounds of sexual trauma cannot be erased, but we've seen how empowering it can be to finally have your voice heard, to hold enablers accountable, and to take back some of what was stolen from you. A civil sexual abuse lawsuit can provide resources for counseling and create a sense of closure. It can also spur real reform so other young athletes are shielded from the abuse you endured.
For too long, National Governing Bodies have failed in their duty to protect athletes, allowing a culture of abuse to persist. It's time to hold these powerful institutions accountable. By taking legal action, you can seek the compensation you deserve while also forcing meaningful reform to safeguard future generations of athletes.
Our firm has a proven track record of success in cases against major NGBs like USA Swimming, USA Gymnastics, and the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOPC). We have the experience and dedication to guide you through the legal process with compassion and strength.
We’re Here to Take Action on Your BehalfIf you are a survivor of sexual abuse in sports, know that you are not alone. At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we stand with you in your fight for justice and healing.
Your voice matters. Your courage in speaking out can create real change. Contact Cerri, Boskovich & Allard today to explore your legal options. Together, we will fight for your rights, help you heal, and work towards a safer world for all athletes. Let us be your advocate on the path to justice.
Call us for a free, confidential consultation. We're here to listen, support, and fight for you every step of the way. Take a stand with us today.
The institutions that failed you must now be held accountable. But coming forward is daunting, especially against entities with extensive resources and high-powered lawyers ready to attack accusers' credibility. Fortunately, there are legal advocates ready to stand by your side.
Cerri, Boskovich & Allard is committed to providing a safe, confidential space for survivors to tell their stories. We believe in you and want to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Our experienced, compassionate California sexual abuse attorneys will guide you through the process at your own pace.
We know the wounds of sexual trauma cannot be erased, but we've seen how empowering it can be to finally have your voice heard, to hold enablers accountable, and to take back some of what was stolen from you. A civil sexual abuse lawsuit can provide resources for counseling and create a sense of closure. It can also spur real reform so other young athletes are shielded from the abuse you endured.
For too long, National Governing Bodies have failed in their duty to protect athletes, allowing a culture of abuse to persist. It's time to hold these powerful institutions accountable. By taking legal action, you can seek the compensation you deserve while also forcing meaningful reform to safeguard future generations of athletes.
Our firm has a proven track record of success in cases against major NGBs like USA Swimming, USA Gymnastics, and the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOPC). We have the experience and dedication to guide you through the legal process with compassion and strength.
We’re Here to Take Action on Your BehalfIf you are a survivor of sexual abuse in sports, know that you are not alone. At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we stand with you in your fight for justice and healing.
Your voice matters. Your courage in speaking out can create real change. Contact Cerri, Boskovich & Allard today to explore your legal options. Together, we will fight for your rights, help you heal, and work towards a safer world for all athletes. Let us be your advocate on the path to justice.
Call us for a free, confidential consultation. We're here to listen, support, and fight for you every step of the way. Take a stand with us today.
