Ep 8. Crystal Mangum

In season 24 episode 8 of Snapped, viewers are introduced to Crystal Mangum, a woman whose life takes a dramatic turn after a false accusation of sexual assault. Mangum, who was working as a stripper and escort at the time, accuses members of the Duke University Lacrosse team of rape. Her accusations gain national attention and spark a wave of controversy and outrage. However, as the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that Mangum's story may not be entirely true.

As the episode unfolds, viewers learn about Mangum's troubled past. She grew up in poverty and had a difficult childhood, which included sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather. Despite these challenges, Mangum managed to graduate high school and began working as a stripper and escort. It's during this time that she meets members of the Duke Lacrosse team at a party.

Mangum initially gives conflicting reports about what happened the night of the alleged assault. However, she eventually settles on a story that implicates three members of the team. The case gains national attention and the accused players are subjected to intense media scrutiny and criticism. Mangum, meanwhile, becomes something of a celebrity, giving interviews and making public appearances.

As the investigation progresses, however, evidence begins to emerge that suggests Mangum may be lying. DNA tests fail to link any of the accused players to the alleged assault, and Mangum's own statements are inconsistent and contradictory. Despite this, Mangum maintains her story and refuses to back down.

As the case drags on, it becomes clear that there are numerous holes in Mangum's story. Her mental health comes under scrutiny, and she is diagnosed with several conditions including PTSD and borderline personality disorder. Still, she refuses to acknowledge that her accusations may be false.

In the end, Mangum's accusations lead to the eventual downfall of the Duke Lacrosse team's season, as well as the resignation of the school's president. However, the case against the accused players eventually falls apart, and all charges are dropped. Mangum, meanwhile, faces charges of her own, stemming from a separate incident.

The episode concludes with a look at where Mangum is today, and the lingering questions about what really happened that night. Despite the controversy and media attention, however, one thing remains clear: Crystal Mangum's life will never be the same.