Schumer calls for review of 'horrifying' Cornell rape case: 'No stone unturned'

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has called for an independent outside investigation into how Cornell University handled an alleged gang rape at a fraternity house, according to ABC News. Hochul stated that the allegations raised serious questions about the university's campus culture and its efforts to protect students. Cornell University has agreed to the outside review.

Hochul emphasized the importance of ensuring the truth is known, both for the public and the victim and her family. Cornell's internal data show that 35% of undergraduate women reported experiencing sexual assault during their time on campus. Hochul emphasized that the issue was widespread on college campuses.

The investigation comes after prosecutors in central New York reopened their probe into the alleged sexual assault following a civil lawsuit filed by a former Cornell student. The woman claims she was drugged, assaulted, and gang-raped by seven current and former members of the Chi Phi fraternity. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten said the office is considering whether to bring criminal charges related to the incident, though the allegations in the civil complaint are different from those the woman initially gave to police.

Cornell's Chi Phi chapter has been barred from campus since the allegations surfaced. The fraternity's interim executive director confirmed that all accused members were expelled from the Cornell chapter within three days of the initial police report. Three of the defendants named in the lawsuit have denied the allegations through their attorneys.

Cornell claims it conducted a thorough Title IX investigation and imposed consequential punishments, including expulsions and suspensions. The university stated that any suggestion otherwise was false. This story is developing; please check back for updates.