Revelations from the Exotic Dancer in the Duke Lacrosse Case
The woman who once accused three lacrosse players from Duke University of rape has come forward this week to confess that her allegations were entirely fabricated. Crystal Mangum, who is currently serving time for second-degree murder, acknowledged that her claims from 2006 ignited a significant national debate surrounding issues of gender, race, and class.
Admission of False Claims
In an interview with podcaster Kate Katerena on her show "Let’s Talk with Kat," Mangum stated, "I made up a story that wasn’t true" regarding former defendants David Evans, Collin Finnerty, and Reade Seligmann, affirming they "didn’t deserve that." She expressed regret for falsely testifying against them, saying, "I betrayed the trust of a lot of other people who believed in me."
Seeking Validation
During the interview, Mangum reflected on her need for validation, explaining that she created a false narrative to gain approval from others instead of seeking self-acceptance through faith. "I wanted validation from people and not from God, and that was wrong when God already loved me for who I was," she admitted.
Background of the Case
On March 13, 2006, Mangum and another dancer were hired to entertain at a party hosted by the Duke lacrosse team. Mangum’s allegations of rape quickly escalated, highlighting contentious topics such as sex work and racial inequities. Ultimately, the charges against the players were dismissed, and it was later revealed that Durham County District Attorney Mike Nifong had withheld crucial evidence from the defense, leading to his disbarment in 2007.
A Message of Regret
Reflecting on her actions from the confines of the North Carolina Correctional Institution for Women, Mangum acknowledged the trust placed in her by Evans, Finnerty, and Seligmann. "The Bible says that you shouldn’t do harm to your neighbor … and they were my brothers, and they trusted me that I wouldn’t betray their trust," she recalled.
Now, at 46 years old, Mangum expressed her desire for the former Duke players to find it in their hearts to forgive her. "I hurt my brothers," she admitted. "I want them to know that I love them and they didn’t deserve it, and I hope they can forgive me."
Criminal Conviction and Future Release
Mangum was convicted of second-degree murder in 2013 for the fatal stabbing of her boyfriend, Reginald Daye, on April 3, 2011, and is currently serving a sentence of more than 14 years. She is slated for release on February 27, 2026, as per North Carolina prison records.
Evans and Seligmann have not yet responded to requests for comment on Mangum’s recent admissions.
