DNA evidence taken from 46 members of the Duke's men's lacrosse team does not match any DNA material from the woman who claimed she was raped by members of the team at a March 13 party, lawyers representing the players said at a press conference Monday.
"No DNA material from any young man tested was present on the body of this complaining woman," lawyer Wade Smith said. "Not present in the body, not present on the surface of her body, belonginigs or materials she had on her, including her clothing."
There was no DNA of the alleged victim found in the bathroom of 610 N. Buchanan Blvd. residence, added Joe Cheshire, a lawyer representing senior captain Dave Evans and resident of the Buchanan house.
"I think it is a false accusation. It has been used to tear this community apart," Cheshire said. "It's time for all of the healing to start."
DNA material from two of the players was found in the bathroom, but Cheshire noted that both players live in the house and share the bathroom.
Forty-six of the 47 players on the team underwent DNA tests March 23, after a judge issued a non-testimonial order forcing the players to comply or face criminal punishment.
The test results were faxed to District Attorney Mike Nifong's office Monday at 4 p.m. As of 5:15 p.m., seven lawyers had already picked up the data.
Nifong has not announced if he will continue to pursue the case. Defense lawyers said they believe the case should be closed.
"There was no sexual assault in this case," Smith said. "We very much hope that with these announcements, and with this carefully prepared test, that perhaps this community can heal."
A local exotic dancer claimed that three members of the men's lacrosse team gang-raped her March 13.
The players are under investigation for first degree forcible rape, first degree kidnapping, first degree forcible sexual assault, common law robbery, felonious strangulation and conspiracy to commit murder.
"This has been an absolute nightmare for these boys and their families," Cheshire said. "I cannot express in words. This, we think, demonstrates the allegations of sex assault did not occur."
No charges have been filed. Nifong could not be reached for comment.
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