Cornell University 2024 rape case reopened, seven accused face grand jury review

New York prosecutors have reopened a 2024 criminal investigation into allegations of a gang rape at Cornell University's Chi Phi fraternity. The investigation was prompted by a civil lawsuit filed by a former Cornell student against seven fraternity members, the university and others. The woman alleged she was drugged, sexually assaulted and raped by multiple Chi Phi fraternity members on October 19th, 2024 at the fraternity's house. The lawsuit also included a Snapchat group chat allegedly discussing sex with the woman.

According to Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten, the investigation will be presented to a grand jury who will decide whether criminal charges should be brought against the accused. The DA's office plans to review new evidence presented in the lawsuit, which differs from the woman's account given to Cornell University Police in November 2024.

Van Houten stated that at the time, the woman's account did not mention being drugged or forced into sexual activity, and the Cornell Police investigation did not support criminal prosecution.

The woman's lawyer, Thomas P. Giuffra, disputed the DA's account, stating his client was never interviewed by a trained detective or prosecutor and that authorities had been given evidence that should have initiated further investigation. One disputed piece of evidence is a screenshot of the Snapchat group chat cited in the lawsuit.

Cornell University also conducted its own Title IX investigation in 2024, resulting in sanctions including expulsions and suspensions for the accused. All seven named individuals have denied the allegations.