The head of the U.S. Center for SafeSport expressed deep concern following the arrest of a former investigator on serious charges, labeling these developments as “just sickening.” CEO Ju’Riese Colon reached out via email to over 70 U.S. Olympic leaders after reports emerged about Jason Krasley, who faced allegations of rape and sex-trafficking.
In her message to leaders within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee and various affiliated organizations, Colon expressed her anger and disappointment, acknowledging the unsettling impact this situation may have on athletes. She shared her distress, stating, “I’m sad for our organization and the impact this may have on athletes.” Colon also expressed her disbelief that Krasley could have deceived both the organization and law enforcement, describing the situation as truly distasteful.
In response to the situation, the center has engaged an external party to review cases that Krasley handled during his time there. Colon clarified, “While we do not have any reason to believe he committed any wrongdoing while at the Center, the audit may result in the Center re-opening cases.” This sentiment echoed a similar message relayed to a claimant seeking the reopening of their case, in which SafeSport staff reassured that the integrity of their investigative processes remains robust.
Established in 2017, the Center for SafeSport was formed to address widespread concerns regarding sexual abuse in Olympic sports, particularly after the high-profile scandals involving Larry Nassar brought to light failings within the system. As of late last year, the center’s investigations team consisted of 36 members, and their disciplinary database included more than 2,000 individuals who faced restrictions or bans from participating in sports.
Colon’s email revealed that Krasley was terminated immediately upon news of his initial arrest for allegedly stealing funds related to a narcotics seizure in Pennsylvania while he served in law enforcement. Krasley’s subsequent arrests on more severe charges, including rape and involuntary sexual servitude, have raised serious questions about the integrity of the center, stirring distress among its leaders. Colon referred to these charges as “despicable if true” and acknowledged the renewed scrutiny the center would face.
Following his arrest, Krasley was released on a $750,000 bond. Unsealed documents relating to the case detail alarming behaviors, including allegations against another involved officer, who purportedly coerced a victim during a previous drug arrest. The affidavit outlined Krasley’s interactions with the same victim during a later sting operation, which culminated in extremely serious allegations against him.
Krasley’s defense attorney firmly denied the accusations, characterizing the timing of the arrests—nearly a decade post-investigation—as strange. The attorney emphasized Krasley’s prior commendable service on the police force before transitioning to the SafeSport center in 2021. The allegations were not identified during SafeSport’s background checks, propelling Colon to indicate that the center would review its hiring policies moving forward.
“This situation is unprecedented for the Center,” Colon stated, reinforcing a commitment to adapt their response plans in light of this disturbing incident.
