Questions Linger After Duke Student Admits Hanging Noose

DURHAM, N.C. (AP) — The swift discovery of the person who hung a noose at Duke University leaves questions ranging from the student's identity to what punishment the person will face.

The university has begun disciplinary proceedings that could result in suspension or expulsion, while federal and state law enforcement officials are investigating whether the action constitutes a crime. The noose was found early Wednesday.

University spokesman Michael Schoenfeld said Thursday that the university identified the person after several fellow students came forward with information, and the undergraduate student admitted to hanging the noose from a tree at a plaza in the heart of campus.

Schoenfeld said the student has left campus but is still enrolled. He declined to describe the culprit's gender, race or whether the student had been in trouble in the past, citing privacy laws.