Atlanta Falcons Part Ways with Assistant Coach LaTroy Lewis Amid Sexual Assault Investigation
ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons have dismissed assistant defensive line coach LaTroy Lewis following the emergence of a police investigation into sexual assault allegations tied to an incident in December 2024. The allegations stem from Lewis’s time coaching with the University of Michigan football staff, prompting swift action from the NFL team less than a month after his hiring.
In a brief statement issued on Friday, the Falcons acknowledged awareness of the claims against Lewis and confirmed they are actively gathering information. “We are aware of allegations regarding LaTroy Lewis,” the team said. “We are in the process of gathering information and will have no further comment at this time.” The Falcons’ decision underscores the heightened scrutiny professional sports organizations face when personnel are implicated in serious criminal allegations.
Lewis’s legal representation has publicly denied the accusations. Attorney Fabiola A. Galguera stated that Lewis “intends to fiercely fight these false allegations with the support of his wife, family and my team.” Attempts to reach Lewis directly for comment were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the University of Michigan, Paul Corliss, described the allegations as “deeply concerning,” reflecting the gravity with which the university views such matters.
The incident reportedly occurred at a hotel during Lewis’s tenure with Michigan’s football program in late 2024. The investigation is ongoing, with local law enforcement agencies conducting inquiries into the matter. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and local police departments often collaborate on sexual assault cases, especially when they involve high-profile individuals or cross-jurisdictional elements.
LaTroy Lewis’s coaching career has included roles at several collegiate programs, most recently with Michigan before briefly joining the Falcons’ staff. His departure from Atlanta comes amid a broader NFL focus on maintaining integrity and safety within the league, as outlined in the NFL Personal Conduct Policy. The league has increasingly emphasized swift responses to allegations of misconduct by players and staff.
Sexual assault allegations involving sports figures have drawn significant public and institutional attention in recent years, prompting organizations to adopt more rigorous investigative and disciplinary procedures. The Office on Violence Against Women within the U.S. Department of Justice provides resources and guidance aimed at addressing and preventing sexual violence, which many sports organizations reference in their policies.
As the investigation proceeds, the Falcons have committed to cooperating fully with authorities. The team’s swift action reflects a growing trend in professional sports to prioritize transparency and accountability. Fans and stakeholders await further developments as law enforcement continues its work, underscoring the serious implications such allegations carry for individuals and organizations alike.
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