A months-long investigation culminated with the demotion of a longtime sergeant in the Louisiana State Police, according to a report by WBRZ. Thomas Noto was determined to have violated numerous state police policies in his role as police escort for the Louisiana State University marching band.
Among the policies investigators determined were violated by Noto: conformance to laws, conduct unbecoming, neglect of duty, use of intoxicants and violating polices for escorts at athletic events.
The investigation began in October when a member of the LSU band alleged that Noto groped her and procured alcohol for members of the band following LSU’s football game against Mississippi State.
At the time, State Police Colonel Lamar Davis said, “This is extremely concerning for all of us. This impacts not only our agency, but it impacts our community and any potential victims. Anytime we have that, that's a major concern of mine.”
Along with his demotion, Noto was removed from his position as band escort.
“My client felt like there was a situation where a line was crossed, that's why she reported it,” Sherman Mack, the band member’s attorney, told WBRZ.
Mack also said neither he nor his client received any information from the Louisiana State Police to relay Noto’s punishment, but rather learned about it from WBRZ’s Investigative Unit.
Authorities in Mississippi are also conducting their own independent criminal investigation of the incidents.
Noto, a 22-year veteran of the State Police, has the option to appeal the decision in front of the Louisiana State Police Commission.
As for the band member, “From the beginning, my client has not wanted any ill will or wanted to ruin anyone's life,” Mack said. “At this point, as far as what we know, she's satisfied with the steps LSU has taken.”
Noto has not yet commented publicly on his demotion.
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