Atlanta Falcons Terminate Assistant Coach Amid Allegations
In a significant move, the Atlanta Falcons have terminated the employment of LaTroy Lewis, their assistant defensive line coach, following allegations of sexual assault that emerged recently on social media platforms. This action was announced on Friday, mere hours after the team acknowledged they were investigating the claims against Lewis. In their statement, the Falcons indicated their awareness of the allegations but refrained from elaborating, stating:
“We are in the process of gathering information and will have no further comment at this time.”
Background of Allegations
LaTroy Lewis’s allegations reportedly trace back to his tenure as a graduate assistant at the University of Michigan during the 2022 season, and he later held the position of assistant defensive line coach for subsequent seasons. Prior to joining the Falcons earlier this month, he served as a defensive line coach at Toledo.
The Milford Police Department responded to a 911 call linked to Lewis, but as of now, the police report is unavailable for public access. Furthermore, Ann Arbor Police have confirmed they were only recently alerted to allegations regarding a sexual assault purportedly occurring on December 5, 2024. According to spokesperson Chris Page, the police department has initiated an ongoing investigation into the incident.
Previous Incidents and Broader Investigations
Lewis previously worked under notable Michigan coaches Sherrone Moore and Jim Harbaugh. Moore himself was dismissed in December for engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a member of the staff, an incident that resulted in formal criminal charges, including felony home invasion and stalking. In light of these developments, the University of Michigan has launched a broader investigation into the circumstances surrounding Moore’s firing and the culture within the athletic department. University spokesman Paul Corliss emphasized that they are encouraging anyone with information related to the investigations to come forward.
Profile of LaTroy Lewis
At 32 years old, Lewis hails from Akron, Ohio, and had an impressive collegiate career as a linebacker at Tennessee. His professional experience includes participation in two NFL games with the Houston Texans during the 2017 season. The unfolding situation is a critical reminder of ongoing issues regarding conduct within sports organizations and the implications of serious allegations against coaching staff.
