Gymnastics scandal: Texas Governor orders probe

Austin [Texas], Jan 31 (ANI): Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Tuesday ordered a criminal investigation into claims that former doctor Larry Nassar abused some of his victims at a Texas ranch that was the training ground for U.S. women's gymnastics.

Several gymnasts have said that Nassar abused them at the ranch. Nassar was sentenced to 40 to 175 years in prison last week. More than 150 women and girls have said he had molested them under the pretext of medical treatment.

Abbott called the allegations "gut-wrenching" and ordered the state investigation, as the claims involve multiple jurisdictions and states.

"Those athletes, as well as all Texans, deserve to know that no stone is left unturned to ensure that the allegations are thoroughly vetted and the perpetrators and enablers of any such misconduct are brought to justice. The people of Texas demand and the victims deserve, nothing less," Fox News quoted Abbott as saying.

The ranch is owned by former national team coordinators Bela and Martha Karolyi. USA Gymnastics cut ties with the ranch earlier this month, a few days after Olympic champion Simone Biles and said she dreaded the thought of having to return there to train. Other gymnasts have also said they were abused at the ranch. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI