The FBI continues to mishandle child sex crime investigations, according to a recent report from the Department of Justice’s watchdog. The agency’s failures have been highlighted in the wake of its botched investigation into Larry Nassar, the former USA Gymnastics doctor convicted of abusing hundreds of athletes. Despite promises for reform, the FBI’s missteps remain a serious concern.
Watchdog report reveals ongoing failures
A Department of Justice watchdog found that the FBI has not implemented sufficient changes to address child sex abuse cases. The report detailed instances where the agency failed to properly investigate allegations, allowing offenders to continue their abuse. These failures mirror issues seen in the Nassar case, where the FBI delayed taking action, leaving many children vulnerable to further harm.
Lack of accountability for mishandled cases
One major issue the watchdog pointed out was the FBI’s lack of accountability. Despite the severity of the cases mishandled, there has been little to no punishment for agents who failed to act. The report emphasized that without holding those responsible accountable, the agency cannot hope to improve its handling of these sensitive investigations.
The need for systemic reform
Advocates for sexual abuse survivors are calling for widespread reform within the FBI. While the agency has implemented some changes since the Nassar scandal, some argue that more must happen to ensure child sex abuse cases are handled with the urgency and care they require. Survivors and their families continue to push for stronger oversight and comprehensive changes to prevent future mishandling.
The recent report demonstrates that the FBI still has a long way to go in protecting vulnerable children. The agency must take meaningful action to address its systemic issues and ensure the safety of children.