Former MSU Head Gymnastics Coach Kathie Klages has been charged as part of an investigation into the university’s handling of complaints against Larry Nassar.
She could face up to four years in prison.
Friday Nassar survivor Lindsey Lemke told FOX 47 News that she went to Kathie Klages to report that she was being abused by Larry Nassar, but Lemke claims that Klages defended Nassar and did nothing to protect her.
“I would say whatever the maximum sentence, I think that's what she deserves”, Lemke said.
“She chose to not protect us and to protect herself and Larry, so I think she deserves the maximum sentence for that.”
Lemke spoke out against her former coach, alleging that Klages was warned about Nassar’s behavior not only by her, but other athletes as well.
“She told my mom that what Larry was doing was a legit treatment”, Lemke explained.
“So clearly she knew what he was doing, as well as Larissa Boyce back in 1997 reported to Kathie as well and told her what he was doing.”
The day after Nassar was hit with child pornography charges in 2016, Lemke says she was convinced that his techniques were inappropriate.
Lemke told FOX 47 News when she went to Klages to report Nassar, she was told his procedure was not abuse.
Klages released a statement about the charges through her attorney which states if she knew about Nassar's abuse, her priority would have been to defend her athletes.
In a statement released Thursday, Michigan State University said it will not comment on the case against Klages.
The university says it is committed to increasing resources and support for sexual assault survivors.
