Disgraced US Olympic doctor given up to 175 years

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON

Former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar was sentenced Wednesday to nearly 200 years in prison after more than 150 gymnasts and women accused him of molesting them over a span of two decades.

The courtroom in the state of Michigan erupted into applause as Nassar was escorted out following Judge Rosemarie Aquilina's sentenced Nassar to between 40 to 175 years.

"I've just signed your death warrant," Aquilina said. "You still think that somehow you are right, that you are a doctor, that you are entitled, that you don't have to listen. And that you did treatment. I wouldn't send my dogs to you, sir."

Nassar had previously been sentenced to 60 years in prison in a separate federal child pornography case.

During seven days of emotional testimony, Nassar's victims, including high-profile athletes, took to the stand to recount their stories of abuse.

"You have not taken gymnastics away from me. I love this sport and that love is stronger than the evil that resides in you, and those who enabled you to hurt many people," three-time Olympic gold medalist Aly Raisman told Nassar.

"You already know you're going away to a place where you won't be able to hurt anybody ever again. But I am here to tell you that I will not rest until every last trace of your influence on this sport has been destroyed like the cancer it is."

In a brief statement to the court, Nassar said the victims' testimony had "shaken me to my core.

"There are no words that can describe the depth and breadth of how sorry I am for what has occurred," he said. "An acceptable apology to all of you is impossible to write and convey. I will carry your words with me for the rest of my days."

Nassar will be sentenced additionally on separate assault convictions in another Michigan court.