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The Duke Lacrosse Case: The Story of Crystal Mangum
In March 2006, Crystal Mangum, a stripper, was hired to perform at a party organized by Duke University lacrosse players David Evans, Collin Finnerty, and Reade Seligmann. The party took place at 610 N. Buchanan Blvd., and Mangum was accompanied by another hired dancer.
According to Mangum, during the event she went to the bathroom and was then trapped by Evans, Finnerty, and Seligmann, who allegedly raped and sexually assaulted her. Mangum reported the incident to the police, and all three players were indicted on charges of rape, kidnapping, and sexual assault.
The allegations quickly garnered national media attention, and Duke University President Richard Brodhead suspended the lacrosse team’s upcoming games. Many criticized the media and university for rushing to judgment before charges were formally proven.
