'Rolling Stone' Reveals Error in University of Virginia Gang Rape Story, Will Dana Issues Apology to Readers

Rolling Stone published a gripping story last month about a gang rape that occurred at a house near the University of Virginia and involved students. Originally, the magazine reported that "Jackie" had been sexually assaulted at the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity house by multiple members of the chapter. The story made national headlines and the university began to investigate the incident internally. The fraternity issued a statement Friday (December 5) that refuted some of the story's details, which caused RS Managing Editor Will Dana to publish a retraction of sorts.

Dana pointed out that because of the delicate nature of Jackie's ordeal, the publication agreed to not contact her assailants — including the man she claimed set her up to be raped — to get their side of the story for fear of retaliation against the victim. Writer Sabrina Rubin Erdely, RS editors and fact checkers had no reason to question Jackie's account or credibility, Dana said.

Phi Kappa Psi refuted three key points in the RS story about a gang rape that reportedly happened at their house in the fall of 2012. The first contention is that no member of the fraternity worked for the campus Aquatic and Fitness Center as a lifeguard in 2012, according to a roster of employees, like Jackie had stated. Second, the fraternity said it did not have any kind of social function the weekend of September 28, which is when Jackie said the rape occurred. Third, the incident was said to have involved "pledges" for the fraternity, but Phi Psi added that pledging and initiation periods take place in the spring, which is required by the university and Inter-Fraternity council.

Dana followed up the note with a few tweets explaining in more detail the error.

Tags

Rolling Stone