WASHINGTON (AP) — A new Justice Department report reveals the FBI’s ongoing mishandling of child sexual abuse cases despite reforms post-Larry Nassar. The report highlights failures in reporting cases to local authorities, leading to extended abuse.
John Manly, an attorney for Nassar’s victims, criticized these ongoing issues and warned they could lead to similar cases. The FBI acknowledged mistakes but claimed most cases are managed correctly and has committed to new training.
The inspector general’s review of over 300 cases from 2021 to 2023 found 42 needing urgent attention, with about half lacking local law enforcement reports. Only 43% were reported within the required 24 hours.
Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin plans a hearing on the issue. The FBI cited heavy caseloads and budget issues as factors. The 2021 report had already criticized the FBI’s handling of Nassar’s case, which continued until his 2016 arrest. Nassar later faced a $138.7 million settlement with victims.
