Duke Charges Dropped

APRIL 11--Meet Crystal Gail Mangum. The North Carolina woman, a 28-year-old college student/exotic dancer, last year claimed to have been sexually assaulted by a trio of Duke University students after she performed at an off-campus party attended by members of the school's lacrosse team. This afternoon, North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper announced that he was dropping all charges against the men, saying that there was 'no credible evidence' against the 'innocent' trio. Cooper said that, in fact, evidence gathered by investigators contradicted the accuser's claim, adding that the woman herself has 'told many stories' that were themselves contradictory. Asked if she had lied about the attack, Cooper said that investigators think that she 'may actually believe' the many different stories she has told. As for charging Mangum in connection with her claims, Cooper said it was 'not in the best interest of justice' to file charges against her. He then made reference to 'sealed' records--which apparently regard her mental health--about the woman that convinced prosecutors not to pursue charges against her. With investigators now formally repudiating Mangum's assault claims, we're publishing a booking photo of her snapped by Durham cops. She was arrested in June 2002 on a drunk driving rap (and other misdemeanors) and later copped a plea and was sentenced to probation. (3 pages)