Federal investigators in Louisiana are asking for help from the public in a serious case involving a former gymnastics coach accused of sexually exploiting children. The FBI is urging anyone who may have been affected, or who has helpful information, to come forward as the case continues to unfold.
Who Is Sean Michael Gardner?
Sean Michael Gardner is a former gymnastics coach who worked at different training centers across the U.S. from 2004 to 2022. He is now facing federal charges for the sexual exploitation of children. According to the FBI, he worked at the following facilities:
2004–2014: Athletes in Motion, Prairieville, Louisiana
2014–2018: Jump In Gymnastics and Tumbling, Purvis, Mississippi
2018–2022: Chows Gymnastics and Dance, West Des Moines, Iowa
Gardner allegedly used his position as a coach to target children over nearly two decades.
What the FBI Is Asking
The FBI’s New Orleans and Jackson divisions are working on the case. They believe there may be more victims who haven’t yet come forward. To help with the investigation, the FBI is asking:
Anyone who believes they may have been victimized
Anyone who has relevant information about Gardner
Anyone who may know someone who had contact with him during the years mentioned
The agency has created a confidential online questionnaire for victims or witnesses and has also set up a secure portal to submit digital evidence.
To report, visit: fbi.gov/seangardnervictims
Support and Confidentiality for Victims
The FBI has made it clear that victim identities will be kept confidential. They also highlighted that victims may be eligible for the following:
Support services
Restitution
Legal protections under both federal and state law
This is part of the FBI’s Victim Assistance Program, which ensures emotional and legal support during such sensitive investigations.
How the Public Can Help
Even if you are not a victim, the FBI is asking the public to share this information widely. If you or someone you know may have trained under Gardner or had any connection to him between 2004 and 2022, it’s important to come forward or alert others.
By spreading awareness, more victims may gain the courage to speak up, and more helpful information can be gathered to strengthen the case.
The charges against Sean Michael Gardner have opened a deeply troubling case that may involve victims across several states. As the investigation continues, the FBI is doing everything it can to identify and support those who may have been affected. If you or someone you know had any connection to Gardner during his coaching years, now is the time to come forward. Even one report could make a huge difference in delivering justice and providing healing to those impacted.
