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Former federal prosecutor to conduct review of USA Gymnastics’ handling of sexual misconduct

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – USA Gymnastics announced Thursday that Deborah Daniels, managing partner of Indianapolis-based Krieg DeVault LLP and former federal prosecutor, was hired to conduct an Independent review of USA Gymnastics’ handing of sexual misconduct matters.

According to a release, the independent review consists of USA Gymnastics’s bylaws, policies, procedures and practices related to the handling of sexual misconduct matters.

Daniels will work with the following experts and organizations:

  • Law enforcement
  • Child welfare
  • Gymnastics community
  • State and local officials
  • Others

The USA Gymnastics Board of Directors will receive a final recommendation from Daniels.

“Deborah’s background makes her the right choice to lead this important effort because the well-being of our athletes is paramount,” said Steve Penny, president of USA Gymnastics. “We believe Deborah’s review of our current practices against today’s standards in this critical area, coupled with interviewing members of the gymnastics community and authorities in related areas, will generate recommendations on what needs refinement to further promote athlete safety.”

Daniels said nothing is more important than the safety of athletes and young people.

“This evaluation is intended to review and strengthen the existing USA Gymnastics process, in addition to likely yielding important insights for other youth-serving organizations.” Daniels said.

Some of the roles Daniels has served as include:

  • U.S. Attorney
  • U.S. Assistant Attorney General
  • Chief Counsel to the Prosecutor at the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office
  • First National Amber Alert Coordinator

She also worked at the U.S. Department of Justice working directly related to the prevention and prosecution of child abuse after the Sep. 11 attack.

Daniels has practiced law with Krieg DeVault for 16 years.