New York Governor Kathy Hochul has appointed a special prosecutor to lead an investigation into a woman’s claims of being gang-raped at a Cornell University fraternity house. Hochul expressed concerns about the local district attorney’s handling of the case and signed an executive order appointing the New York Attorney General Letitia James as the special prosecutor.
The appointment comes after revelations that raised doubts about the initial investigation by the Cornell Police Department and the decision by the Tompkins County District Attorney not to pursue charges related to an alleged sexual assault on the university campus in October 2024. Governor Hochul stated that these developments have eroded her confidence, as well as the public’s confidence, in the district attorney’s ability to effectively address the case.
Governor Hochul emphasized that the attorney general would oversee the investigation and potentially present evidence to a grand jury if necessary. She stressed the importance of ensuring that the victim receives a thorough examination of all facts and a pursuit of justice.
Following a lawsuit filed last month, additional information regarding the alleged assault in 2024, the university’s response, and the absence of criminal charges has emerged. The lawsuit, filed by a woman known as Jane Doe, implicates seven fraternity brothers, the university, the Chi Phi fraternity, and others. Allegations include one of the men notifying over 50 fraternity members via social media about the incident and encouraging their participation.
Lawyers representing two of the accused individuals have refuted claims of their involvement in the assault, with one asserting his client did not engage with the woman. Efforts to reach the other men or their legal representatives have been unsuccessful.
Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten recently announced the reopening of the investigation following the review of new information disclosed in the woman’s civil lawsuit. Van Houten had defended his previous decision not to press charges, citing discrepancies in the initial police report. In response to public and political pressure, Cornell University agreed to bring in external investigators to review its handling of the allegations.
Cornell University confirmed the indefinite suspension of the Chi Phi fraternity and disciplinary actions against some students after Jane Doe reported the assault. The university cited student privacy regulations for not disclosing specific details of the disciplinary actions taken.
For immediate assistance or if you are in danger, please call 911. You can also seek support from crisis lines and local services through the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada database.