Latest on investigation into alleged rape at Cornell as Letitia James appointed as prosecutor

The New York Attorney-General's office is set to examine Cornell University's handling of rape allegations against seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity, following a civil lawsuit filed by a student who claims she was sexually assaulted while unable to consent. The case was reopened after the Tompkins County District Attorney's Office was urged by the community to reconsider whether to pursue criminal charges against the men, according to court documents.

Jane Doe, who remains anonymous to protect her identity, did not disclose certain key allegations to Cornell police in 2024, resulting in no initial criminal charges being filed. Governor Kathy Hochul, who appointed Letitia James as special prosecutor on the case, expressed concern that the university had not provided the full picture, stating that the focus should remain on the victims.

Cornell University conducted an internal disciplinary investigation involving 50 interviews with 32 witnesses, and one of the accused men is seeking to have the disciplinary action against him overturned to clear his academic record. Newly unsealed court documents reveal messages between Doe and one of the defendants, in which she admits to enjoying the sexual encounter despite being intoxicated.