Steven Lopez, the only U.S. Olympic taekwondo champion, was given an interim suspension Monday after allegations of sexual misconduct and an investigation that reportedly began three years ago.
Four women filed a lawsuit last week alleging that Lopez and his older brother and coach, Jean, committed sexual abuse against them. They also sued the U.S. Olympic Committee and USA Taekwondo for allowing the abuse.
Lopez was suspended for “allegations of misonduct,” according to the U.S. Center for SafeSport, which responds to reports of sexual misconduct within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movements.
USA Taekwondo said Lopez is suspended “pending further proceedings.