'Jackie' fights judge's deposition order

The legal battle against Rolling Stone over a discredited article heats up this week as the woman whose allegations about a gang attack inside a University of Virginia fraternity house fights efforts to question her. Hawes Spencer has this report.

The plaintiff, a UVA dean, argues that seven hours grilling Jackie won't suffice. Jackie's lawyers contend that she's a rape survivor, and too emotionally fragile to withstand anything but written questions. Legal analyst Scott Goodman:

"They are throwing everything-- including the kitchen sink-- at the judge to give a reason why Jackie should not have to sit down and answer questions under oath."

Goodman says Jackie should fear the planned interrogation.

"The only way she can possibly the answer the questions truthfully is to admit that she lied in her account that she gave to Rolling Stone," says Goodman.

Unless the judge changes course at a hastily-called hearing, Jackie's deposition is scheduled for Tuesday.

For WCVE News, Hawes Spencer in Charlottesville.

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IMAGE: The story was recently added to an exhibition of journalistic errors at the Newseum in Washington. (photo by Ophelia Lenz)

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