By Melissa Carwin
According to the press release Penny, who resigned from his position as director and CEO of USA gymnastics in March of 2017 with a $1 million dollar pay-out, was formally indicted September 28, 2018. Texas Rangers found Penny at his cabin in Tennessee where he was apparently vacationing with his wife and three children Wednesday night October 17, 2018.
According to the court documents, it is reported that Penny is being charged with removing records from the national team training center (Karolyi Ranch) in order to help conceal Dr. Nassar and his criminal wrongdoing from the public.
Emails between Penny and FBI agents involved in the investigation further confirm Penny attempting to gain alignment with the agents investigating Nasser by inserting himself into the investigation hoping to keep this atrocity concealed and quiet. At one point Penny can be seen writing to an FBI agent, “We need a cover”, in reference to releasing Nassar from his duties with USAG. When Penny’s Attorney’s were asked about this, they claimed Penny was only trying to help and didn’t establish any conflict of interest.
If Steve Penny is convicted he will face from 2-10 years confinement and be convicted of a third-degree felony charge of tampering with evidence. His bail was set at 25k and his court appearance is scheduled in Walker County Texas October 29, 2018.
In the meantime, USAG continues reeling with severe accusations regarding their handling of this case and the culture of gymnastics in its entirety. Many are calling for complete decertification of USAG, up to and including, past and present elite, Olympic gymnasts, parents, friends, members and fans of the sport itself.
Photo: Sevier County Sheriff’s Office
