Gymnastics Abuse Scandal First Verdict

As reported in several news sources, on May 26, 2010, Steve Infante, close associate of Steve DiTullio from the former Five Star Gymnastics in Stow, now named 10.0 Academy, was found guilty of child rape and molestation charges and sentenced to 8-10 years in prison. See: Lowell Sun article from 5/26/10.

For those who do not know, this case unfolded in November 2007 here in Stow. The criminal allegations brought forth showed that there were very close ties between "the two Steves," including that several of the indecent assaults occurred in the Littleton home of Steve DiTullio. DiTullio was charged with perjury as a result of the investigation. However, there were some disturbing allegations concerning DiTullio, and additional well-documented incidents involving children, all of which were reported in the press.

These "two Steves" ran a summer camp together for many years out in Springfield which several Stow children were required to attend. At one of them, from just a few years ago, photographs circulated the Internet at the time of the scandal, showing DiTullio handcuffing a teenage girl; images which were supplied to the Middlesex District Attorney. Additionally, it is public knowledge that DiTullio also tapped several girls mouths in the gym in Stow back in 2007 in an apparent display of discipline.

Parents should know that while Five Star Gymnastics had its name changed to 10.0 Academy a few months after the scandal broke, it may have been not that much more than a public relations move. Steve DiTullio was sole owner of Five Star Gymnastics at the time the scandal broke.  The company has done business as "The Gym Nest, Inc." since 1980, despite whatever name is on the gym; and appeared prominently in the Infante trial.  Public records show that the business is now owned by Steve's wife Suzie DiTullio. 

Parents also should make sure the gym is standing by its 2007 statement that DiTullio "has removed himself from his coaching position and will not be present in any capacity".

Related Posts:

• Five Star Gymnastics Renamed to 10.0 Academy (2/8/2008)
• Explanation for Pictures Emerges (11/30/2007)
• The Role of the Media in Abuse Scandals (11/29/2007)
• Gymnastics Abuse Scandal Unfolds (11/28/2007)
• Sad News Comes to Stow (11/26/2007)