For the first time publicly, Crystal Mangum said she lied nearly 18 years ago when she accused Duke University lacrosse players of raping her.

Crystal Mangum, who falsely accused three Duke men's lacrosse team members of raping her back in 2006, has confessed to making the story up.

Former exotic dancer Crystal Mangum, who accused three Duke University lacrosse players of raping her at party in 2006, now admits she fabricated the allegations.

Crystal Mangum, who falsely claimed three Duke men's lacrosse team members raped her in 2006, is now admitting she made it up.

In a Oct. 23, 2008 file photo, Crystal Mangum, who falsely accused Duke lacrosse players of rape, speaks about the release of Mangum's book.

WASHINGTON — Crystal Mangum, the former exotic dancer who falsely accused three Duke men's lacrosse players of rape in 2006, now says she lied about the incident and hopes they can forgive her.