The fallout from the Larry Nassar scandal has been one of the most devastating and far-reaching in modern American sports history. From the sheer number of victims to the staggering impact on institutions like Michigan State University, the case has prompted sweeping legal, cultural, and systemic changes.
Now, yet another chapter has been added. Former MSU gymnastics coach Kathy Klages has been convicted for lying to police during the Nassar investigation—making her the second person held criminally responsible for enabling or covering up his crimes.
A History of Denial and Defensiveness
When the allegations against Larry Nassar first came to light, Klages quickly became a controversial figure. Known for her public defense of Nassar, she was suspended from her coaching position at Michigan State University and resigned soon after.
During the 2018 investigation, Klages was questioned by police regarding allegations that two gymnasts—then teenagers—had disclosed Nassar’s abuse to her in the late 1990s. Klages denied any memory of such conversations, claiming she was shocked when the allegations surfaced in 2017.
Witness Testimony Tells a Different Story
At trial, Larissa Boyce testified that in 1997, when she was training with the Spartan youth gymnastics program, she reported Nassar’s inappropriate behavior to Klages. Another then-14-year-old gymnast reportedly made a similar complaint on the same day. According to Boyce, Klages discouraged her from filing a complaint, warning it could create serious problems and urging her to stay silent. Boyce said she later apologized to Klages for making the report.
Klages denied these conversations ever happened. But the jury disagreed.
Convicted of Lying to Police
After just three hours of deliberation, the jury convicted Klages of two criminal charges:
- A felony count of lying to police during a serious criminal investigation;
- A misdemeanor count related to the same conduct.
She now faces up to four years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for April 15. Her case was heard in the same courthouse where Larry Nassar received his historic sentence.
Why This Matters: Lying to the Police Can Lead to Criminal Charges
This case is a powerful reminder of one of the most critical rules we give every client: Do not talk to the police without legal counsel—and never lie.
You are legally allowed to remain silent. That is your constitutional right. But lying to investigators, even about seemingly small details, can result in criminal charges that carry serious consequences.
If you are under investigation—especially for child abuse or neglect—do not take chances. Law enforcement and CPS may seem friendly or helpful at first, but their goal is to gather evidence, not protect you.
Call The Kronzek Firm First—Then Stay Silent
At The Kronzek Firm, we’ve been defending Michigan residents accused of child abuse, neglect, and related crimes for over 25 years. We know how these investigations unfold, and we know how easy it is to get into legal trouble by speaking to investigators without representation.
If you’re accused of a serious offense or believe you’re under investigation, here’s what to do:
- Don’t answer questions.
- Don’t lie.
- Call us immediately at (866) 766-5245.
Our attorneys are available 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to protect your rights and your future.
Your silence can protect you—dishonesty never will.