Duke University is inviting back two of the lacrosse players accused in a sexual assault case, including an Essex Fells man.

Reade Seligmann, of Essex Fells, and Colin Finnerty, of Long Island, were barred from attending class during the fall semester. The sophomores were charged in April after an exotic dancer told police she was raped during an off-campus party. The rape charges against the two were dropped almost two weeks ago. The university said Wednesday that it wants the players back in the classroom, even though they still face kidnapping and sexual assault charges. University officials say both Seligmann and Finnerty could return to school as students in good standing.

Attorneys for Seligmann and Finnerty say it is unknown if their clients will be returning to classes. Seilgimann?s attorney adds that the ongoing court case is what he is focused on. Both men have maintained their innocence since the accusations began. Finnerty?s attorney adds that Duke?s decision to reinstate the two is just one more step towards clearing their names.

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