Falcons Dismiss LaTroy Lewis Amid Michigan Sexual Assault Investigation
The Atlanta Falcons have parted ways with assistant coach LaTroy Lewis following an allegation of sexual assault. The move comes amid an investigation by the Ann Arbor Police Department relating to an incident that reportedly took place on December 5, 2024, when Lewis was affiliated with the University of Michigan.
Details of the Allegation Against LaTroy Lewis
The allegations emerged publicly on social media, prompted by reporter Justin Spiro. According to Chris Page, a strategic communications manager with the Ann Arbor Police Department, the police were informed of the allegations shortly after their occurrence. Page confirmed that Lewis has been identified as the suspect in the case.
Timeline of Events
- December 5, 2024: The alleged sexual assault occurs in a hotel in Ann Arbor.
- January 2025: The same woman involved files for a personal protective order against Lewis in Washtenaw County.
- February 10, 2025: Lewis is hired by the Atlanta Falcons as assistant defensive line coach.
Involvement of University of Michigan
Lewis worked at Michigan from 2022 until early 2025, first serving as a graduate assistant and later advancing to assistant defensive line coach. The woman involved reportedly met Lewis through a dating application, and they communicated primarily via text messages and social media.
During their first in-person meeting in December 2024, the woman intended to end their relationship and return gifts. However, the encounter escalated to the alleged assault, which she reported to Michigan coach Sherrone Moore the following day. According to her lawyer, Karen Truszkowski, Moore failed to take appropriate action, and instead attempted to pursue a relationship with the woman.
Responses and Current Status
- Truszkowski emphasized that Moore’s response was inadequate and counterproductive.
- Attorney Ellen Michaels, representing Moore, denied the allegations against her client as false.
- The Ann Arbor Police Department’s investigation remains ongoing.
Additionally, the Falcons acted swiftly to dismiss Lewis shortly after the allegations surfaced. This incident adds to the mounting challenges facing Michigan’s football program, which has already experienced turmoil due to previous allegations surrounding Coach Moore’s conduct.
Conclusion
The situation is developing, with the Ann Arbor Police Department continuing its investigation. The Falcons, while distancing themselves from Lewis, are monitoring the situation closely, emphasizing their commitment to upholding professional standards and accountability.
El-Balad will provide further updates as new information becomes available.
