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Former Michigan coach Sherrone Moore has emphatically denied allegations that he failed to report misconduct involving former assistant coach LaTroy Lewis, who was recently fired by the Atlanta Falcons amid a sexual assault investigation.
The Falcons terminated Lewis’s employment on Friday following reports of an alleged sexual assault that occurred during his tenure at the University of Michigan. Ann Arbor Police confirmed they are actively investigating Lewis for an incident reported to have taken place on December 5, 2024.
“The Ann Arbor Police Department was just recently made aware of allegations regarding a sexual assault,” said Chris Page, strategic communications manager for the department. “The suspect in this investigation is LaTroy Lewis. The AAPD Detective Bureau launched an immediate investigation into the incident. This investigation remains active and ongoing.”
Lewis had joined the Falcons coaching staff earlier this year after spending the 2025 season at Toledo. His connection to Michigan extends back to 2022, when he began as a graduate assistant under Jim Harbaugh before continuing under Moore’s leadership in 2024.
The controversy intensified on Friday when social media reports detailed the alleged assault and claimed the victim had informed Moore about the incident. According to these reports, Moore allegedly failed to report the information through proper university channels—a serious violation of institutional policy and potentially state law.
Moore, through his attorney Ellen Michaels, has categorically rejected these accusations. “Sherrone Moore did not fail to report misconduct, did not reward wrongdoing, and did not harass anyone,” Michaels stated in a text message to the Detroit Free Press. “These claims are false.”
The Washtenaw County prosecutor’s office has clarified its role in the matter, noting that it “is not an investigatory body” but rather reviews evidence submitted by law enforcement. “As with any case, if a report is submitted, we will review the evidence and make a determination based on the facts and the law,” explained Liz Mack, spokeswoman for the prosecutor’s office.
The University of Michigan has described the allegations as “deeply concerning” and confirmed ongoing investigations into both Moore’s conduct and broader cultural issues within the Athletic Department. “The University launched an investigation of the circumstances and conduct leading to Sherrone Moore’s firing, as well as a broader culture review of the Athletic Department,” said Paul Corliss, Michigan’s assistant vice president of public affairs.
The university continues to encourage anyone with relevant information to contact the law firm conducting the investigation at umconcerns@jenner.com.
This controversy comes at a particularly difficult time for Moore, who is already facing legal troubles. He was arrested on December 10 and subsequently charged with felony home invasion and two misdemeanors. His next court appearance is scheduled for early March.
The situation represents the latest in a series of scandals to hit major college football programs in recent years, raising questions about institutional oversight and the reporting mechanisms for alleged misconduct within athletic departments. For Michigan, still recovering from previous controversies, this incident poses significant challenges to the university’s efforts to restore public confidence in its football program.
The allegations also highlight the increased scrutiny facing college coaches regarding their handling of misconduct reports, with potential implications for institutional liability and compliance with Title IX regulations that govern sexual misconduct cases on college campuses.
As the investigation continues, both the university and law enforcement have indicated they will provide further updates when available. The case has drawn significant attention across college football circles, with implications that could extend beyond the individuals directly involved.
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6 Comments
This is a troubling situation. It’s good that the authorities are investigating the allegations against Coach Lewis thoroughly and objectively. I hope the truth comes to light soon, for the sake of all involved.
Refuting allegations is important, but the safety and well-being of students should be the top priority. I’m glad the police are looking into this matter. Transparency and accountability are crucial in such cases.
Agreed. Allegations of misconduct, especially involving sexual assault, must be taken seriously and investigated properly. The coaching staff and university need to cooperate fully with the authorities.
The lawyer’s refutation is understandable, but the facts will ultimately need to be determined through a thorough investigation. I hope the truth emerges, and that appropriate actions are taken based on the findings, whatever they may be.
Allegations of this nature are always complex and sensitive. I appreciate the university and coaching staff cooperating with the authorities to ensure a fair and impartial investigation. The well-being of the students must be the top priority.
This situation highlights the need for robust policies and procedures to address misconduct allegations in college sports programs. Protecting student-athletes should be the paramount concern, not just defending the reputation of coaches.