Official statements and press releases from the FBI

FBI Criticized for Mishandling Child Sexual Abuse Cases Despite Reforms, 43% Compliance After Nassar Case

Aug 29, 2024, 04:43 PM

A recent report from the U.S. Justice Department's Office of Inspector General criticizes the FBI for its continued failure to properly handle child sexual abuse cases, despite previous commitments to reform. The report highlights that the FBI has not adequately investigated or reported many allegations of child sexual abuse to appropriate law enforcement agencies. This issue persists years after the mishandling of the high-profile case involving former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, which had already prompted promises of reform. The watchdog report indicates that in numerous incidents, the FBI did not respond appropriately, and in about half of the cases reviewed from 2021 to early 2023, the bureau failed to report suspected abuse to local authorities. The report found that the FBI complied with mandatory reporting within the required 24-hour period in only 43 percent of cases, and only 17 percent of cases were fully documented. The Senate Judiciary Committee plans to hold a hearing on this matter, as the report suggests systemic issues within the FBI's handling of such cases.