New York Attorney General Letitia James announced Friday that her office has opened an “active criminal investigation” into an alleged gang sexual assault that occurred at Cornell University in October 2024. The investigation follows Governor Kathy Hochul’s executive order appointing James as an independent special prosecutor to review the case.
Background of the allegations
A civil complaint filed in September by a woman identified only as Jane Doe accuses seven members of Cornell’s Chi Phi fraternity of providing alcohol and drugs to the point of intoxication and then sexually assaulting and raping her. The complaint alleges that the fraternity members’ conduct was non‑consensual and that the victim was unable to give meaningful consent.
State response
Governor Hochul signed an executive order on Thursday that designates James as the special prosecutor, citing “serious questions” about the investigation conducted by Cornell Police and the decision by the Tompkins County District Attorney not to pursue criminal charges at the time.
James said, “Every New Yorker deserves to know that when they report a crime, it will be investigated fully and fairly, that they will be seen and heard. That is the promise of our justice system.” She added that her office will review the facts, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and pursue prosecutions if warranted.
District Attorney’s prior decision
The Tompkins County District Attorney’s Office released a statement on September 28, 2026, explaining that the November 2024 sworn statement from Jane Doe did not allege that she was drugged against her will or gang‑raped, describing the alleged conduct as “voluntary, conscious, and consensual.” The office said its decision not to file charges was based on that statement, not on the later civil lawsuit.
District Attorney Matthew Van Houten later said he had never been informed that the statement he received was inaccurate or incomplete, and that he only reached out to the plaintiff’s attorneys after the lawsuit was filed to understand the discrepancy.
Cornell University’s position
Cornell University issued a statement to Fox News saying it “fully supports the appointment of a special prosecutor and efforts to change New York State’s rape law and is committed to an independent external review of all aspects of how Cornell has handled this case.” The university also announced that it has reopened its own internal investigation.
Implications for campus safety
The investigation underscores ongoing concerns about how universities handle sexual assault allegations and the role of campus police in preserving the rights of victims. Advocates for stronger campus safety measures have welcomed the state’s involvement, while some local officials have called for greater transparency in the investigative process.
Next steps
Attorney General James indicated that her office will continue its review over the coming months, emphasizing a commitment to a thorough and fair process guided by the facts and the law. The outcome of the investigation could influence future policies on campus sexual assault handling and may prompt additional legislative action at the state level.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
