The Ithaca Common Council voted late Wednesday night to halt the issuance of city permits to Cornell University and its affiliated student organizations, including fraternities, until at least Nov. 5. The 9‑1 vote reflects growing community concern over the university’s handling of a sexual assault lawsuit filed by a former student identified as Jane Doe.
Moratorium details and intended purpose
Under the new ordinance, Cornell will be barred from obtaining permits for assemblies, parades, special events at the Ithaca Commons, and any activity that requires a noise permit. Council members framed the measure as a public‑safety precaution, emphasizing the need for the university to cooperate fully with local law‑enforcement investigations.
The ordinance also adds an amendment requiring Cornell to refer investigations involving sexual and violent crimes to the Ithaca Police Department. While the enforcement mechanism remains unclear, councilors said the amendment is intended to ensure transparent, timely investigations.
Community reaction
Support for the moratorium came from a broad cross‑section of Ithaca residents and many Cornell students who expressed frustration with the university’s response to the allegations. “We want to see accountability and safety for all students and neighbors,” said Councilmember Maria Alvarez.
However, a handful of graduate students warned that the broad language could unintentionally affect events unrelated to Greek life, such as academic conferences and cultural festivals. One graduate student cautioned that the moratorium might lead to canceled events, lost deposits, and reduced venue access.
Background of the lawsuit
Jane Doe filed a civil lawsuit in September alleging that seven former members of the Chi Phi fraternity drugged and sexually assaulted her on the night of Oct. 19, 2024, and into the following morning. According to the complaint, Doe arrived at the fraternity house already intoxicated, after which the men allegedly pressured her to take ketamine and other substances. The defendants deny wrongdoing, with some claiming the sexual activity was consensual.
The fraternity was suspended on Nov. 8, 2024, the same day Doe reported the allegations to campus police. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten initially declined to pursue charges, noting that Doe’s earlier sworn statement described the encounter as “voluntary, conscious, and consensual.” In November 2024, Van Houten reopened the case after obtaining a transcript in which Doe stated, “I can say with 100% confidence I was raped.” The district attorney has not received the full transcript.
State involvement
Governor Kathy Hochul intervened on Oct. 1, 2024, appointing Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor. Hochul said the new information raised serious questions about the Cornell Police Department’s investigation and the district attorney’s decision not to prosecute.
James’ office has not yet released a public statement on the case, but the appointment underscores the heightened scrutiny surrounding the university’s handling of sexual assault allegations.
Next steps
The council’s moratorium will remain in effect until Nov. 5, unless councilors vote to extend it. Critics of the measure have urged the council to craft narrower language that targets only events directly tied to the alleged misconduct, while supporters argue that the temporary pause sends a clear message that public safety and accountability are paramount.
City officials indicated they will monitor the situation closely and work with Cornell administrators to develop a more permanent framework for handling future incidents.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
