Woman Who Falsely Accused Duke Lacrosse Players of Rape Released from Prison

Crystal Mangum served time for murdering her boyfriend in 2013

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Crystal Mangum, the woman who falsely accused Duke lacrosse players of rape in 2006, has been released from a North Carolina prison after serving time for the 2013 second-degree murder of her boyfriend, Reginald Daye. Mangum, a 47-year-old former exotic dancer, was thrust into the national spotlight nearly two decades ago when her allegations against the lacrosse players touched off a major controversy.

Why it matters

Mangum's false accusations against the Duke lacrosse players sparked a national debate on issues like sex work, race, gender, and class. Her release from prison after serving time for a separate murder conviction raises questions about accountability and the lasting impact of high-profile cases involving allegations of sexual assault.

The details

Mangum was convicted in 2013 for the second-degree murder of her boyfriend Reginald Daye, whom she stabbed to death in 2011. She was sentenced to more than 14 years in prison. On Friday, Mangum was released from the North Carolina Correctional Institution for Women in Raleigh and driven to Durham, where she will be living with a friend.

  • Mangum accused Duke lacrosse players of rape in 2006.
  • Mangum stabbed her boyfriend Reginald Daye to death in 2011.
  • Mangum was convicted of second-degree murder in 2013 and sentenced to over 14 years in prison.
  • Mangum was released from prison on February 27, 2026.

The players

Crystal Mangum

A 47-year-old former exotic dancer who falsely accused Duke lacrosse players of rape in 2006 and was later convicted of second-degree murder for the 2011 killing of her boyfriend, Reginald Daye.

Reginald Daye

Mangum's boyfriend whom she stabbed to death in 2011, leading to her second-degree murder conviction.

David Evans

One of the Duke lacrosse players falsely accused of rape by Mangum in 2006.

Collin Finnerty

One of the Duke lacrosse players falsely accused of rape by Mangum in 2006.

Reade Seligmann

One of the Duke lacrosse players falsely accused of rape by Mangum in 2006.

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The takeaway

Mangum's case highlights the lasting impact and consequences of false allegations of sexual assault, as well as the need for accountability and due process in the justice system. Her release from prison after serving time for a separate murder conviction raises further questions about how high-profile cases involving allegations of sexual violence are handled and the lasting trauma they can inflict on all involved.