The Prosecutor's Defense -- Lawyer for Ex-Duke Prosecutor Nifong Speaks Out
Jan. 25, 2007 — -- Mike Nifong, the embattled prosecutor once at the helm of the Duke lacrosse rape case, revealed little as he appeared in court Wednesday to face serious ethics charges by the North Carolina Bar.
In an interview with "Good Morning America," though, Nifong's attorney said that his stone-face expression buried the true feelings of a man under siege.
"He's devastated. It's very upsetting to be attacked. … It's like he's public enemy No. 1," said David Freedman, Nifong's attorney.
"Here's a man who's trying to do his job as an elected DA in Durham County. He's always held himself up as an ethical individual. … It's a bit of a surprise."
Nifong was charged Wednesday with new allegations that include making false statements in court and withholding key DNA evidence. Those, along with earlier charges of making inappropriate public statements about the case, could cost Nifong his job and his livelihood.
"It's very, very serious stuff. Mr. Nifong could lose his law license. [If that happens] he could no longer be [Durham County] district attorney," said Rufus Edmisten, a lawyer and former attorney general of North Carolina.
The new ethics charges have made Nifong feel like he's battling the world, not just supporters of the accused Duke lacrosse players.
"Obviously he's feeling dejected because he's got these new charges against him. He feels as if the world is turning against him," Freedman said.
Nifong still has his supporters, though. After leaving the State Bar courtroom, he was approached by a stranger while walking down the street.
According to Freedman, the middle-age woman looked up, called out to Nifong, ran toward him, and hugged him.
"We're praying for you," she said.
Nifong denies having knowingly lied or purposely hid evidence in the Duke case. Even after everything that has happened, he does not regret filing charges against three Duke lacrosse players.
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