Republican lawmakers are demanding more answers from FBI Director Christopher Wray regarding the mishandling of child sexual abuse cases by the agency.
Senator Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) and his colleagues stressed the importance of holding the FBI accountable for failing to protect children from predators. They stated, “It is not only outrageous but unacceptable that the FBI continues to fail the victims of sexual abusers. These victims deserve justice.”
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The letter also called on the FBI to address the issues raised in the OIG report and implement necessary reforms promptly.
In response to the OIG’s findings, Schmitt and his colleagues posed several questions to Wray, including inquiries about any obstacles preventing FBI compliance with reporting regulations.
Their concerns stemmed from the fallout of the Larry Nassar scandal, a case involving a sports doctor who abused champion gymnasts.
Furthermore, Schmitt and fellow lawmakers requested details about disciplinary actions taken against FBI personnel who consistently failed to adhere to established protocols.
The senators sought information on the number of employees terminated or placed on leave for policy violations, as well as the circumstances leading to their departures.
Specifically referencing the FBI’s handling of the Nassar case, the lawmakers highlighted the agency’s commitment to preventing similar failures in the future.
The August report noted that the FBI had made policy, training, and system updates since the 2021 OIG report on Nassar but identified instances of non-compliance by FBI staff in handling such cases.
In June 2022, Olympic champion Simone Biles and other Nassar survivors filed a lawsuit against the FBI for over $1 billion, alleging negligence in responding to reports of Nassar’s misconduct. Despite Nassar’s guilty plea in 2017, his abuses persisted after FBI intervention.
An FBI spokesperson confirmed the receipt of both letters and reiterated the agency’s commitment to child safety, emphasizing ongoing efforts to enhance compliance and effectiveness in combating crimes against children.
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