U.S. Center for SafeSport Permanently Bans Paralympic Swimmer Robert Griswold

The U.S. Center for SafeSport has permanently banned Paralympic swimmer Robert Griswold following allegations of sexual assault against an autistic teammate during the 2021 Paralympic Games in Tokyo. This decision comes after a civil lawsuit was filed in 2022, which detailed a pattern of grooming and sexual assault that reportedly began during the Games and continued for about a year afterward. The lawsuit was dismissed in 2023 due to jurisdictional issues.

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The allegations against Griswold include claims that he sexually assaulted a teammate who has the mental capacity of a five-year-old. The lawsuit accused both the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and the SafeSport center of "shielding and protecting" Griswold while he engaged in these acts. The plaintiff's attorneys have not commented on the recent developments, and the plaintiff's identity remains confidential as per standard practices regarding abuse victims.

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Benita Fitzgerald Mosely, the new CEO of the U.S. Center for SafeSport, emphasized the importance of accountability in creating a culture of safety within Olympic and Paralympic sports. She stated, "Accountability is the path to long-term culture change," expressing gratitude to those who come forward with their stories, which enable the center to take necessary actions to protect others.

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• August 2022: Robert Griswold is placed on temporary suspension by the U.S. Center for SafeSport.

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• 2022: A civil lawsuit is filed against Griswold, detailing allegations of sexual assault.

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• 2023: The lawsuit is dismissed by a federal judge due to jurisdictional issues.

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• October 2023: The U.S. Center for SafeSport permanently bans Griswold from participation in Olympic and Paralympic sports.

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The lawsuit raised concerns regarding the USOPC's decision to allow Griswold to share accommodations with the plaintiff, which was deemed "especially troubling" given the plaintiff's disabilities. Critics argue that this oversight reflects systemic issues within the organizations responsible for athlete safety.

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While the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee did not provide immediate comments regarding the permanent ban, the SafeSport center's actions indicate a commitment to addressing sexual misconduct in sports. The center's disciplinary database notes that Griswold retains the right to appeal the decision.

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The dismissal of the civil lawsuit has raised questions about the legal framework surrounding allegations of sexual misconduct in sports. The lack of jurisdiction cited by the judge remains a point of contention, leaving some advocates concerned about the protections available for athletes.

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• “Accountability is the path to long-term culture change,” — Benita Fitzgerald Mosely, CEO, U.S. Center for SafeSport

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