Duke Lacrosse Players Going Back to the Courtroom

I've never been a fan of lawsuits. I understand their function, but I think they are abused more than they are used. There are very few times when I see a lawsuit has been filed that I agree with.

This is one of those few.

If you follow sports at all, you will recognize these names: Reade Seligmann, Collin Finnerty and Dave Evans. And if those names don't ring a bell this one will: Mike Nifong. The three are the former Duke lacrosse players who were wrongly accused of rape last year. The latter is the (former) DA who stubbornly continued to pursue the case, allegedly to bolster his chances at reelection.

Seligmann, Finnerty and Evans are striking back. They have filed a lawsuit against Nifong, the city of Durham and the police detectives that handled the investigation. The lawsuit seeks unspecified punitive and compensatory damages along with legal fees and reforms to the way the Durham Police handle investigations. According to the Associated Press the lawsuit calls the investigation "one of the most chilling episodes of premeditated police, prosecutorial and scientific misconduct in modern American history."

Apparently the lawyers for the players met with the city about a month ago seeking a $30 million settlement along with several legal reforms. The city was given 30 days to decide, after which the attorneys would file a civil suit.

I'm honestly more interested in seeing Nifong finally face real punishment for his part. Earlier this year he was held in criminal contempt and served one day in jail. I wonder if he and Paris Hilton shared a cell?

I know his professional career is ruined and his name is worthless, but he also ruined the lives of three men. They will always be the Duke lacrosse players who were in that trial.

This will be an interesting trial, one where the investigation and prosecutorial processes will be in the spotlight.