Cornell president vows 'serious look' at fraternities in wake of gang rape allegations

Cornell University president Michael Kotlikoff has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into the university's handling of allegations surrounding a gang rape that allegedly occurred at a fraternity house in 2024. In an 8-minute video message, Kotlikoff assured the campus community that the university would examine the role of fraternities and sororities on campus, following public outcry over the school's response to the incident.

He acknowledged that the past week had raised concerns about the investigations conducted at the time of the allegations, stating that the school would take steps to prevent similar situations in the future.

Kotlikoff emphasized the importance of individual responsibility within groups, stating that being part of a fraternity or sorority never diminishes personal accountability. He further noted that the alleged victim, identified as Jane Doe in court documents, is suing the men involved, the Chi Phi fraternity, the university, an Ithaca bar, and others for undisclosed damages.

According to investigation records, the woman reported being pressured into consuming illicit drugs and alcohol, which left her completely incapacitated.

The New York Times reported that the woman explicitly stated to a police officer, "I can say with 100 percent confidence I was raped." However, this statement was omitted from the official police report sent to prosecutors, who ultimately decided to drop the case. Cornell University conducted its own investigation, which led to the expulsion of some students and suspensions of others.

Kotlikoff reiterated his commitment to an independent review, which the school's board of trustees plans to announce details about later in the week. He supported Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to transfer the criminal investigation to the state attorney-general.

In response to student calls for his resignation during a hearing on October 1, Kotlikoff admitted to frustration over the lack of communication, which had led to a loss of trust. He pledged greater transparency and more opportunities for students, parents, and others to engage with university leaders. Kotlikoff also committed Cornell's support to legislative efforts aimed at changing New York's sexual assault laws, which critics argue create a "voluntary intoxication loophole" and inadvertently separate individuals incapacitated by drugs without consent from those who voluntarily became intoxicated.

The district attorney who initially declined to pursue criminal charges cited these laws as the reason for their decision.