New York Officials Probe Cornell After Gang Rape Allegations
Governor Kathy Hochul and other officials are investigating Cornell University's response to a 2024 alleged gang rape involving the Chi Phi fraternity.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has called for a transparent, independent review of Cornell University's campus culture and its response to a 2024 alleged group rape. The demand follows a civil lawsuit filed by a former student, Jane Doe, who alleges she was drugged with ketamine and gang-raped by seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity on October 19, 2024. The lawsuit claims the assault was advertised in a fraternity Snapchat group chat.
In response to the filing, Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten reopened the criminal investigation to seek a grand jury review. Van Houten admitted his office previously relied on Cornell Police without conducting an independent probe, though he noted that the civil complaint differs dramatically from the victim's 2024 sworn statement, which he claims described the conduct as consensual.
Ithaca Mayor Robert G. Cantelmo implemented an immediate moratorium on all student and special event permits, including Greek life gatherings, citing a miscarriage of justice. He criticized Cornell for failing to coordinate with the Ithaca Police Department. Simultaneously, New York Attorney General Letitia James began a review of the university's handling of the allegations.
Cornell University officials denied claims that they failed to discipline the accused, stating they issued expulsions and suspensions following a Title IX investigation. The university confirmed the Chi Phi chapter was closed and barred from campus in 2024, denying that students were permitted to mitigate their conduct by writing essays.
