Duke Player: Nightmare Is Over
Prosecutors Drop All Charges Against Duke Lacrosse Players Accused Of Sexual Assault
www.cbsnews.comThe Duke Lacrosse case began with initial claims of a serious assault against members of the team in March 2006, as the university shut down the season and replaced the coach, with some players resigning as investigations unfolded. Charges against the players were later dropped, and the program resumed under new 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 pursued investigations into multiple players, but the case did not end as prosecutors dropped charges and the program moved forward. Overall, the episode left lasting questions about investigation integrity and led to policy changes within the program. Sources at Duke and major outlets documented the developments as the legal and athletic consequences unfolded. The episode resulted in the team rebuilding under new leadership and ongoing scrutiny from the university community.