Four years after an investigative report uncovered serious allegations against LSU’s Title Nine office, a new report suggests that little has been done about it. Andrew Greenstein reports.
Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”
______________________________________
LSU football has lost a five-star commitment on the eve of national signing day. Jeff Palermo has more…
Cut 2 (33) “….I’m Jeff Palermo”
______________________________________
Four years ago, in the wake of an explosive investigative report by USA Today, LSU promised to make improvements to its Title Nine office. However, a new report by the Louisiana Illuminator says there’s been little to no progress. Piper Hutchinson is conducting the investigation for the Illuminator in conjunction with Tiger Rag Magazine. She says employees within the office are alleging a hostile work environment, which is causing a slowdown in Title Nine complaints.
Cut 3 (11) “…office right now.”
Hutchinson notes that universities in general, not just LSU, receive a fair number of Title Nine complaints. Among the complaints at LSU is one in which a professor who allegedly covered up sexual assault allegations against a graduate assistant.
Cut 4 (11) “…to these abuses.”
Hutchinson says among the Title Nine complaints at LSU involved the Title Nine office itself.
Cut 5 (11) “…Department of Education.”
______________________________________
Today the state is breaking ground on the Maurepas Swamp Project in St. John the Baptist Parish. A freshwater divergence that will reconnect the Mississippi River to Maurepas Swamp. Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana Communication Director James Karst says CRCL is also working in conjunction with the state…
Cut 6 (09) “…in the swamp.”
River reintroduction involves redirecting fresh water and sediments from the Mississippi River into the swamp via engineered channels. This process replenishes nutrients, improves water quality, and mitigates subsidence by restoring natural sediment deposition. Karst says the reintroduction aims to counteract decades of wetland loss and create a healthier environment for native species.
Cut 7 (11) “…very long time.”
Volunteers and environmental groups will plant bald cypress and water tupelo trees, species essential for stabilizing the ecosystem and providing resilience against hurricanes and flooding. Karst says these trees also enhance carbon sequestration and support diverse wildlife habitats.
Cut 8 (11) “…swamp land again.”
______________________________________
Former Catholic priest and admitted serial child molester, pleaded guilty to kidnapping and raping a boy in the 1970s. 93-year-old Lawrence Hecker’s plea is a rare conviction linked to the Catholic Church’s long-standing abuse scandal. Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams says Hecker plead guilty to every count…
Cut 9 (05) “…to a life sentence.”
Williams says Hecker’s victim, who was assaulted in a church bell tower converted into a weightlifting room, had reported the attack to his school principal, who failed to inform authorities.
Cut 10 (14) “…predator to run.”
Hecker’s guilty plea was welcomed by survivors prepared to testify about decades of abuse. Williams described the plea as significant for survivors seeking justice.
Cut 11 (13) “…hurt other people.”
Investigations have expanded into whether the archdiocese concealed systemic abuse. No senior clergy have been charged in connection with Hecker’s crimes.