Former Larry Nassar Victims Testified They Told Michigan State About His Abuse in 1997

Larry Nassar's actions have forever clouded the Michigan State gymnastics program (and athletic department in general) ever since his courageous victims came forward en masse. Countless female students have alleged in recent years that Nassar sexually abused them during his tenure, but it would seem that his indiscretions date back further than what was previously reported.

As it turns out, Nassar's abuse may date all the way back to at least 1997. Larissa Boyce testified at Ingham County Circuit Court on Tuesday that she approached Michigan State gymnastics coach Kathie Klages to tell her of Nassar's assaults well over 20 years ago.

Once Boyce revealed her horrifying experiences with Nassar, Klages downplayed the actions, saying Nassar would never do such a thing, considering she'd known him "for years and years." In fact, Klages brought in numerous females from the Michigan State varsity and youth programs and asked if they've had any abusive encounters with Nassar. No one spoke up.

Then 16 years old, Boyce revealed that Klages stressed there would be serious consequences for herself and Nassar if she were to file a complaint. Out of fear of getting in trouble and feeling humiliated, Boyce refused to go through with the grievance.

Boyce then revealed that her friend was also assaulted by Nassar. Her friend remained anonymous before the court, but testified that she was abused repeatedly by the doctor.

Nassar wouldn't be arrested until 2016, where he has since been sentenced to 175 years in prison for sexual assault and child pornography. As for Klages, she's currently on trial for two charges of lying to police, claiming Boyce never approached her with her complaint.

Either way, Michigan State looks worse for enabling Nassar's actions for nearly 20 years.