Last month, the U.S. Center for SafeSport terminated one of its investigators after discovering he had been arrested for stealing money confiscated during a drug bust in his previous role as a police officer. The investigator, Jason Krasley, had left his position with the Allentown Police Department in Pennsylvania in 2021 and was subsequently hired by the Denver-based SafeSport center to handle sensitive cases involving sex abuse and harassment.
One of Krasley's cases involved Sean McDowell, who reported an incident of stalking and harassment within his Seattle-based recreational rugby club. McDowell expressed frustration with the center's delayed response in assigning an investigator to his case, which took approximately eight weeks. Krasley was initially assigned to the case but was later dismissed by the center, prompting concerns about the handling of ongoing investigations.
The SafeSport Center, established in 2017 to address sexual misconduct in sports with Olympic ties, faces challenges in managing a growing number of reports. With around 77 employees, including 36 on the investigations team, the center receives an average of 155 reports per month. The organization emphasizes the importance of thorough background checks and vetting processes for its staff.
Krasley, a former detective with the Allentown police for 20 years, was arrested in 2024 for allegedly stealing money seized during a 2019 drug bust. The center is now reviewing cases previously handled by Krasley and has engaged an external firm to conduct an audit of his investigations.
Concerns have been raised by individuals whose cases were assigned to Krasley, including fencer Kirsten Hawkes, who questioned the handling of her abuse allegations. The center is reassessing Krasley's cases to ensure proper procedures were followed.
Despite the dismissal of Krasley, some accusers like McDowell remain skeptical about the center's commitment to addressing their complaints promptly and effectively. McDowell expressed frustration over the handling of his case and emphasized the impact of the situation on his personal life and reputation.
The SafeSport Center continues to investigate the matter and is working to address any potential mishandling of cases involving Krasley. Accusers are seeking reassurance that their complaints are being taken seriously and resolved in a timely manner.
