Duke Player: Nightmare Is Over
Prosecutors Drop All Charges Against Duke Lacrosse Players Accused Of Sexual Assault
www.cbsnews.comThe Duke University lacrosse case centered on initial claims of a gang rape against members of the team in March 2006, as the university shut down the season and had the coach, with some players leaving the program as investigations unfolded. Charges against the players were later dropped, and the program resumed under different leadership. Duke lost two games in response to acknowledged inappropriate behaviors by lacrosse team members, and later modified player status to administrative leave before allowing return in good standing as the case evolved. The DA said he was investigating multiple players, but the case evolved beyond as prosecutors dismissed charges and the program moved forward. Overall, the episode left lasting questions about conduct and led to reforms within the program. Sources at Duke and major outlets reported the developments as the legal and athletic consequences continued to unfold. The episode resulted in the team rebuilding under new leadership and ongoing scrutiny from the university community.