LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan State University says allegations that it covered up a former gymnastics doctor’s criminal sexual misconduct are “simply false” and it is “appalled” by Larry Nassar’s crimes.

USA Gymnastics says it is “very sorry” any athlete was harmed by Nassar.

The institutions issued statements Wednesday after victims and their lawyers criticized their handling of Nassar, who pleaded guilty in a Michigan courtroom to molesting girls under the guise of medical treatment.

The victims and attorneys — who have sued the university, USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic Committee — want an independent investigation of officials who work there. The university says its campus and the FBI investigated earlier this year, and the school has “no reason to believe” that any employee other than Nassar committed a crime.