Cleared From left, Duke University lacrosse players David Evans, Collin Finnerty, and Reade Seligmann at a press conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, in April 2007, after they were cleared of rape charges. (more) Duke Lacrosse Rape Case How the case that sparked global debate about race, class, and stereotypes proved to be based on a lie. Written by Tracy Grant Tracy Grant is a senior editor at Encyclopaedia Britannica. She previously served as editor in chief, the first woman to hold that title. Tracy Grant Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Mar. 31, 2026 •History ClearedFrom left, Duke University lacrosse players David Evans, Collin Finnerty, and Reade Seligmann at a press conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, in April 2007, after they were cleared of rape charges.© Grant Halverson/Getty Images In March 2006 three white Duke University lacrosse players were accused of the brutal rape of a Black college student who had been hired to perform as an exotic dancer at a team party. The case made national and global headlines and...

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