New twist in Cornell University gang-rape case

Cornell University is facing a new development in a rape case from 2024. According to New York state prosecutors, they have reopened their investigation into the alleged gang rape of a woman at the university. A former student has filed a lawsuit against the university, claiming that seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity drugged and sexually assaulted her in October 2024.

Jane Doe, the victim, alleged in the lawsuit that she was drugged and sexually assaulted at a fraternity house in Ithaca by seven fraternity members. She was 20 years old at the time of the incident. The victim claimed she was intoxicated after drinking at her sorority and a nightclub before visiting a friend at the fraternity house late on October 19, 2024. She said she was given drugs by two fraternity brothers before they sexually assaulted her.

Although no fraternity members were arrested, the victim's attorney claims only two of the seven alleged attackers were expelled, with the others receiving lesser punishments like writing essays. A video of the fraternity's group Snapchat conversation from the night of the alleged assault has emerged, revealing that one of the men sent a message suggesting there was "free p---" upstairs. Another fraternity member later agreed, and more men participated in the alleged rape which lasted until around 5:45 a.m.

Cornell University acknowledged the investigations into the serious allegations of drug abuse and sexual violence at the Chi Phi fraternity house, calling the behavior "abhorrent." The university's Office of Civil Rights and the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards investigated the allegations. The Xi chapter of Chi Phi fraternity remains barred from campus.

The national headquarters of Chi Phi fraternity condemned the allegations of sexual violence, emphasizing their commitment to character and respect for dignity and safety.