United States Olympic Committee (USOC) Board members have “reached a consensus” on how to react to an ongoing sexual abuse scandal within USA Gymnastics.
They will not, however, reveal what exactly they have proposed, or whether it relates to the organization’s under fire head Steve Penny, until the national governing body have had an opportunity to respond.
His comments follows reports in USA Today earlier today claiming how USOC Board members believe Penny should resign amid mounting pressure.
Former national team doctor Larry Nassar remains in jail awaiting trial on state charges of child sexual abuse, as well as federal child pornography charges, as a probe which has already lasted eight months continues.
“We had thoughtful, lengthy and detailed conversations about this issue during our [Quarterly Board] meeting today,” said USOC chairman Larry Probst.
“It’s not appropriate for us to tell you what that consensus point of view is until USA Gymnastics has had a chance to consider our input,”
No deadline has been given for USA Gymnastics to answer but USOC hopes it will be “sooner rather than later.”
The USOC discussions, which supposedly arose as part of a broader debate on sex abuse prevention, did not include plans to de-certify USA Gymnastics.
This was proposed in a letter sent by California attorney John Manly to Probst.
Manly is suing USA Gymnastics on behalf of alleged victims of Nassar.
Penny has led the national body since 2005.
It is claimed the body did not fully report allegations of sexual misconduct made by female team members.
USOC do not have the direct power to request Penny’s removal, but it would be hard for USA Gymnastics to go against such a recommendation.
“The entire leadership of USA Gymnastics shares the USOC’s commitment to promoting a safe environment for all athletes, and we take its views seriously,” a statement today claimed.
“USA Gymnastics has initiated a comprehensive, thorough and independent examination of our requirements, mandates and procedures in this area and we expect this review will identify ways to strengthen our program and better protect youth
“The USA Gymnastics Board of Directors will convene shortly and work to determine next steps.”
By Nick Butler
Republished with permission from insidethegames.biz.