Governor Edwards reiterated his support for LSU’s decision not to fire anyone in the wake of the Husch Blackwell report detailing widespread mishandling of sexual misconduct cases.
Edwards said it’s clear that a number of former LSU employees should’ve been fired back in 2013, 14 and 15, but those employees aren’t at LSU anymore.
“If you look at the Husch Blackwell Report I don’t think there is any doubt that the most egregious behavior was by those who are no longer at LSU and have not been for many years,” said Edwards.
A growing chorus is calling for Athletic Administrator Verge Ausburry to be fired for his mishandling of those cases, but Edwards said the failure was systemic, not individual.
“I accept that he did not properly report but there is reason to believe that he reported the way that he was told to by his supervisor,” said Edwards.
Ausberry was suspended for 30 days as a result of the Blackwell findings but is back working at the school now.
LSU recently barred all employees from testifying before a Select committee dedicated to investigating the school’s failure to handle those cases. Edwards didn’t disagree with the school’s decision.
“I want lawmakers and members of the public to have as much information as possible directly from those who were involved but whether that is now even possible with the pending litigation, I’m just not sure,” said Edwards.
LSU is being sued by Athletic Administrator Sharon Lewis who alleges there was a broad conspiracy to cover up sexual misconduct by former coach Les Miles, and that she faced retaliation for investigating allegations against Miles. LSU lawyer Winston Decuir responded to the suit saying the school will defend against the claims and that Lewis is just trying to take advantage of the ongoing situation for personal benefit.
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