USOPC Fires Coach & Director: Biathlete Abuse Case
- A former biathlete, Boutot, has accused her coach, Colliander, of sexual misconduct during her time at the Maine Winter Sports Center.
- According to reports, Boutot repeatedly asked Colliander to stop, but her pleas were ignored.
- Paralympic Team in December 2016 as associate director of high performance for U.S.
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has taken action! Find out how the association responded to shocking reports of sexual misconduct involving a biathlete’s coach and a director at the Maine Winter Sports Center. Allegations of abuse, dating back to the mid-2000s, have prompted a thorough investigation into Colliander’s behaviour, revealing disturbing details of inappropriate touching and escalating misconduct. The impact on Boutot, now 34, is important. The accused denies all wrongdoing. News Directory 3 provides you with the key details as they emerge. What steps will be taken to ensure the safety of athletes moving forward? Discover what’s next …
Sexual Abuse Claims Rock Maine Winter sports Center
A former biathlete, Boutot, has accused her coach, Colliander, of sexual misconduct during her time at the Maine Winter Sports Center. The alleged abuse occurred between 2006 and 2010, starting when Boutot was 15. Initially, the misconduct involved inappropriate touching, but it escalated after Boutot turned 18 to include kissing, sexual fondling, and oral sex.
According to reports, Boutot repeatedly asked Colliander to stop, but her pleas were ignored. This led to severe depression and self-harm. Boutot’s therapist contacted Colliander in September 2010, informing him of boutot’s condition and requesting that he cease coaching her.Colliander only stopped after Boutot’s suicide attempt in October 2010. He resigned the following day.
Despite resigning, Colliander was later hired by the U.S. Paralympic Team in December 2016 as associate director of high performance for U.S. Paralympics nordic skiing.
Carey, than vice president at the Maine center, and CEO Andy Shepard, reportedly discussed the situation wiht Boutot’s mother via email, but allegedly never launched an investigation into Colliander’s behavior. In 2011, Boutot filed a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission, accusing the center of failing to prevent the sexual misconduct and retaliating against her for reporting it. The center settled the complaint for $75,000 later that year.
Carey left the Maine center in December 2010 and eventually became a director for the Paralympic team.
Boutot, now 34, is among several Olympians and biathletes who have come forward following reports of sexual abuse and harassment.Colliander’s case is currently under review by SafeSport.Colliander’s lawyer told the Associated Press that he ”adamantly denies any wrongdoing or inappropriate behavior.”