Cornell president vows review in wake of alleged student gang rape

Cornell University's president has vowed to conduct an external review of the institution in the wake of an alleged gang rape that has sparked widespread outrage. President Michael Kotlikoff expressed support for an independent law firm to examine the university's handling of the 2024 incident. The case was brought forward in a lawsuit filed last month, alleging that Jane Doe was drugged with ketamine and sexually assaulted by seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity, a male-dominated social club.

The plaintiff claimed to have been clear and confident in her accusations of rape to the police. New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who has re-opened the criminal investigation, slammed the initial police handling of the case, stating that the complainant left no doubt about her confidence in the allegations. President Kotlikoff acknowledged that the university will take action to ensure Cornell becomes a leader in addressing such issues, but vowed not to wait for the investigation or review to complete before taking steps.