Sure. That would be effective. I think at least Finnerty's attorney wants to keep things as quiet as possible but civil suits in different forums would be a great strategy.
Wouldn't you like to have some Duke alum hand you 500 grand and tell you to you get started?!
I do not believe attacking her would be wise in most such cases, but in this case, it's essential.
You can't get her for slander for telling police. There's an exception for that. But she's talked to an Essence journalist, her family, and others, and in doing so she published falsehoods, maliciously intended to do harm, and having that result.
I would also do it because it's the only real vindication and trial these guys are likely to have.