FBI arrests ex-gymnastics coach on illegal child imagery production

A former gymnastics coach linked to a West Des Moines academy known for training Olympic champions was arrested by the FBI this week on a federal charge related to the production of illegal child imagery, more than three years after allegations of sexual misconduct against him first surfaced. The case ties to multiple former students and stretches back to a Mississippi gym where investigators say he also abused and recorded young athletes. While authorities allege a pattern of predatory behavior, the ongoing investigation and related Safesport proceedings have left many questions about accountability and timely discipline in youth sports.

Sean Gardner, 38, was brought into Chows Gymnastics and Dance Institute in 2018 by owner Liang Chow as a highly regarded hire. He rose to direct Chows’ premier junior program and later led the Winter Classic meet, drawing criticism and concern from some observers about how safeguarding is handled when allegations exist. Gardner reportedly told a local broadcaster in 2019 that coaching at Chows represented “the job I’ve always wanted,” and that the gym’s culture was “beautiful.” In the four years he remained with Chows, several students earned...