Former German diver Hempel gets €600,000 in damages over sexual abuse

BERLIN – Olympic diving medallist Jan Hempel will receive €600,000 ($636,000) in damages and compensation from the German Swimming Federation (DSV) for being sexually abused by his coach over 14 years.

Hempel’s lawyer Thomas Summerer and the DSV annnounced the settlement on Monday, as a possibly lengthy court case was avoided.

Hempel revealed last year in a documentary by broadcasters ARD that he was abused by coach Werner Langer between 1982 and 1996. He said the DSV was aware of the allegations since 1997 but had done nothing. Langer took his life in 2001.

Under the settlement, Hempel will receive €300,000 immediately and the other half of the overall sum in monthly instalments over a period of 10 years.

“I am very happy that it was possible to find an out of court solution that combines legal and moral claims. A longer trial, possibly over several courts, would have done my client more harm than good,” Summerer said in a statement to dpa.

DSV vice-president Wolfgang Rupieper said: “It is of central importance for the DSV to ensure the integrity and safety of our members and athletes. This decision reflects our moral obligation and deep respect towards Jan Hempel and all those affected.”

An independent commission set up by the DSV after Hempel went public over the abuse had recommended such a settlement. The sum is unusually high by German standards.

Hempel, 52, won 10 metres silver at the 1996 Olympics and 10m synchronized bronze in 2000.

He also has 14 medals from world and European championships.