ITHACA, N.Y. — In a decisive effort to strengthen campus safety, Cornell University announced Thursday that it will work directly with the New York State Police to investigate reports of sexual assault. The partnership, unveiled alongside Governor Kathy Hochul, gives students the option to file a complaint with either the university police, the state police, the Ithaca Police Department, or the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office.
Why the partnership matters
Governor Hochul emphasized that “every student deserves to feel safe on their campus” and that survivors should be heard, treated with compassion, and have their allegations investigated by law‑enforcement professionals trained to support them. Cornell President Michael I. Kotlikoff echoed the sentiment, describing the agreement as a core component of the university’s broader safety plan.
Background of the investigation
The new arrangement comes as former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates conducts a federal review of how Cornell handles sexual assault claims. The review follows a high‑profile civil lawsuit filed by a Jane Doe who alleges she was pressured to take ketamine and then gang‑raped by seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity on the night of Oct. 19, 2024.
According to court filings, Doe reported the incident to Cornell Police in November 2024. Cornell’s internal investigation concluded in May 2025, resulting in the expulsion and suspension of the seven men. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten declined to bring criminal charges, stating there was insufficient evidence to prosecute.
Local law‑enforcement response
On Sept. 26, the Ithaca Police Department disclosed that it had not been notified of the alleged October 2024 assault until the story appeared in the media. The department called the accusations “disturbing” and urged any victims of sexual assault to contact law enforcement.
By extending reporting options to the state police, the university aims to address concerns that campus authorities alone may lack the resources or perceived independence needed for thorough investigations. Survivors can now choose the agency they trust most, a flexibility that aligns with the administration’s stated goal of “ensuring allegations are taken seriously and thoroughly investigated.”
Community reaction
Local parents and faith‑based groups have welcomed the move, noting that a partnership with a statewide agency adds an extra layer of accountability. “Our families want to know that their children are protected by professionals who are not only trained but also independent of campus politics,” said a spokesperson for the Ithaca Family Alliance, a coalition of parents and church leaders.
Critics, including some civil‑rights advocates, caution that the state police must be vigilant against any bias and ensure that investigations are conducted with sensitivity to survivors. They stress the importance of transparent reporting and timely updates to the campus community.
Next steps
The agreement will remain in effect while Yates’ federal review proceeds. Cornell has pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation and to implement any recommended reforms. In the meantime, the university’s Office of Student Conduct will continue to provide resources, counseling, and support services to survivors.
Both the state police and Cornell officials say the partnership is a proactive measure designed to restore confidence in campus safety and to demonstrate a commitment to protecting students, staff, and faculty alike.
Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
