Olympic bobsled athlete Aja Evans, who won bronze at the 2014 Sochi Olympic Winter Games, has filed a lawsuit accusing chiropractor Jonathan Wilhelm of sexual abuse. The suit also includes the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, the USA Bobsled and Skeleton Federation, and Wilhelm’s personal practice, Pro Chiropractic, as defendants. The allegations state that Wilhelm repeatedly sexually harassed and assaulted Evans under the guise of providing medical care while she was a member of the USA Bobsled team, beginning in 2012.
In a news release provided by her attorneys, Evans expressed that her lawsuit aims to protect other athletes from Wilhelm’s predatory behavior and hold USA Bobsled and the USOPC accountable for enabling her abuser and neglecting the wellbeing of their athletes. In response to the allegations, Wilhelm’s attorney stated that his client denies the claims and looks forward to defending himself in court.
The court filing details that Wilhelm inappropriately touched and groped Evans’ genitals and body, violating medical standards. The suit also accuses him of secretly recording videos and taking photos of Evans and others without their consent while they were undressed during treatment sessions and prior to competition at the USOPC facility in Lake Placid, New York.
According to the lawsuit, the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee and USA Bobsled were aware of Wilhelm’s history of inappropriate behavior, including sexual assault and invasion of privacy, yet still selected him as the primary care provider for the US Women’s Bobsled team, despite complaints from Evans and her teammates.
The USOPC stated that it takes allegations of abuse seriously and is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of Team USA athletes. Wilhelm’s company, Pro Chiropractic, declined to comment on the lawsuit. The lawsuit draws a parallel between Wilhelm’s alleged treatment of Evans and the abuse perpetrated by Larry Nassar, the former USA Gymnastics doctor.
Evans’ decision to bring the lawsuit highlights the ongoing issue of abuse and misconduct within the sports industry. It underscores the importance of providing a safe and respectful environment for athletes, coaches, staff, and volunteers. Investigations into the allegations are being conducted by the U.S. Center for SafeSport and law enforcement.
