Fraternity: Rolling Stone rape story was defamatory, reckless; says it’s pursuing legal action

RICHMOND, Va. — The fraternity at the center of a now-discredited Rolling Stone rape article says the story was defamatory and reckless and they are pursuing legal action against the magazine.

Phi Kappa Psi said Monday in a statement that the article was viewed by millions, led to members being ostracized and there was vandalism of the fraternity house.

The fraternity’s statement came as the Columbia Graduate School of Journalism released a report, saying the magazine’s shortcomings “encompassed reporting, editing, editorial supervision and fact-checking.”

The article said a woman named “Jackie” was gang raped at the fraternity house. Police say there is no evidence the attack took place.