Lawsuits Filed Against USA Gymnastics and SafeSport Over Allegations of Sexual Abuse

Two gymnasts have filed lawsuits against USA Gymnastics, the U.S. Center for SafeSport, and Liang “Chow” Qiao, the founder of Chow’s Gymnastics and Dance Institute, alleging negligence in preventing sexual abuse by coach Sean Gardner. The lawsuits, filed in Polk County, Iowa, claim that both oversight bodies were informed of Gardner's inappropriate behaviors as early as December 2017 but failed to take necessary actions to protect athletes. Despite multiple complaints, Gardner continued to coach at Chow's, where the plaintiffs allege they were subjected to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.

Associated Press

The lawsuits detail a pattern of grooming behaviors exhibited by Gardner, including requiring long hugs from young female athletes and making inappropriate comments. Reports to USA Gymnastics and SafeSport included allegations of Gardner kissing gymnasts, excessive alcohol consumption in their presence, and verbal abuse. Notably, a parent reported these behaviors in December 2017, yet Gardner was allowed to continue coaching. The situation escalated when Gardner was arrested in August 2022 on federal child pornography charges related to hidden camera recordings of minors.

Associated Press

The defendants in the lawsuits include USA Gymnastics, SafeSport, Qiao, his wife Liwen Zhuan, and their family corporations. Qiao is recognized for coaching Olympic champions such as Shawn Johnson and Gabby Douglas. The lawsuits allege that Qiao and Zhuan failed to conduct adequate background checks on Gardner and ignored complaints about his conduct.

Associated Press

In response to the allegations, USA Gymnastics acknowledged the seriousness of the case but declined further comment. SafeSport stated that it had not yet been served with the lawsuit and noted that Gardner was temporarily suspended in 2022 after receiving the first report of misconduct. They emphasized that this suspension was the only reason Gardner was barred from coaching until his arrest.

Associated Press

Attorney John Manly, representing the plaintiffs, criticized the culture within USA Gymnastics, suggesting it prioritizes financial success over athlete safety. He stated, “It illustrates in my view that the culture of money and medals over child safety is still alive and well in USA Gymnastics and the Olympic system.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns regarding the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms in protecting young athletes.

Associated Press

While the lawsuits allege that multiple reports of Gardner's misconduct were ignored, SafeSport indicated that a previous case involving Gardner did not pertain to sexual misconduct. This discrepancy raises questions about the thoroughness of investigations conducted by both USA Gymnastics and SafeSport.

Associated Press

The plaintiffs, including Iowa State gymnast Finley Weldon and University of Iowa student Hailey Gear, are seeking unspecified damages for their injuries and treatment expenses. As more former gymnasts come forward with similar allegations, additional lawsuits may follow, potentially leading to further scrutiny of the practices within USA Gymnastics and SafeSport.

Associated Press