An independent, state-ordered investigation into reportedly “erratic and abusive behavior” by Ohio Rep. Elliot Forhan, D-South Euclid, concluded legislative leaders were justified in disciplining him.

Because of accusations of confrontations with other lawmakers, constituents and lobbyists, Forhan lost all his committee assignments and was barred by House Minority Leader C. Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, from contacting interns, pages and Democratic legislative aides. He also was required to have a House sergeant-at-arms accompany him while he was at the Statehouse.

But the report suggests Forhan didn’t learn his lesson, repeatedly failing to comply. He reportedly showed up at the Statehouse and a legislative office building unannounced, and yelled at the sergeant-at-arms or one of his assistants.

It seems Forhan is part of a recent crop of politicians that believes the rules do not apply to them; and that the worse the behavior, the more favorable the political attention.

But his constituents decided they’d had enough. He did not win the Democratic primary last month and his term will expire at the end of the year.

The investigation, conducted by a Columbus law firm appointed by state Attorney General Dave Yost, concluded legislative leaders were right to move quickly on Forhan, as his behavior, if left unaddressed, would have posed “a significant threat to the institutional integrity of the Ohio House and its reputation, and posed a credible risk of escalating to violence or violent conduct.”

It would be nice to think other elected officials who make their reputation by behaving like petulant children would learn from Forhan’s fate. But we aren’t holding our breath.