Public statements or interviews by the players reported by major news outlets

Imprisoned for Murder, Crystal Mangum Admits Lying About Duke Lacrosse Rape Nearly Two Decades Later

Dec 13, 2024, 02:06 PM

Crystal Mangum, the woman who falsely accused three Duke University lacrosse players of rape in 2006, has admitted that she fabricated the allegations. In an interview released this week from prison, where she is serving a 14-18 year sentence for second-degree murder, Mangum confessed, saying, "I made up a story that wasn't true... I testified falsely against them by saying that they raped me when they didn't. I hope that they can forgive me." The initial accusations ignited a national controversy about racism and privilege, significantly impacting the lives of the accused players. Despite her confession, Mangum cannot face perjury charges due to the statute of limitations. There has been no apology from the media, Duke University professors, or politicians who supported her claims. The district attorney handling the case was disbarred for misconduct following the dismissal of the charges.