BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) -- After attempting to plead their cases, three former Baton Rouge police officers who were fired last year for alleged abuse in 2020 were unable to have cases dismissed against them. All three were fired last year for alleged abuse in 2020. The three former BRPD officers lost their first chance to appeal their cases by a 4-1 vote after the Municipal Fire & Police Civil Service Board held a hearing Monday. Police Chief Thomas Morse originally fired Lt. Troy Lawrence, Cpl. Todd Thomas and Cpl. Douglas Chutz in September of last year in connection to allegations of abusing a man in police custody and getting rid of the evidence back in 2020. A fourth officer, Martele Jackson, resigned but also faces criminal charges. Lawyers for Thomas, Lawrence and Chutz spoke on their behalf, saying the initial investigation was wrong. Attorney Kyle Kershaw, a representative for one of the officers, says the way they handled the investigation violated their rights. Sentencing for two Louisiana brothers found guilty in money laundering scheme pushed to February BRPD investigated the matter when Murphy Paul was chief of police. The Officers' Bill of Rights is a Louisiana law that upholds fair and concise investigations for police. Kershaw says the law was violated and the investigation exceeds the time limit. "That includes recording any interrogations of any law enforcement personnel. That includes when you receive the complaint, you're supposed to start within 14 days," Kershaw said. Kershaw explains Paul failed to document the original citizen's complaint after it was made. "Contrary to Baton Rouge policy, Baton Rouge Police Department policy that I've submitted in my exhibits to Paul failed to document this complaint in any form or fashion," Kershaw said. After more discussion, it was moved to allow another hearing on Feb. 24. All officers have pleaded not guilty and await trial. Latest News Michelle Obama to skip Trump inauguration Louisiana agriculture commissioner talks about challenges California faces in fight against wildfires Princess Kate says her cancer is in remission Watch out for scams when donating to California wildfire victims WATCH: Girls basketball coach accused of hitting person with car after argument