Woman at centre of Cornell rape allegations has been threatened, lawyer says

The woman who alleges she was drugged and raped by Cornell University students has been threatened, her lawyer stated on Sunday. Thomas Giuffra, representing the unnamed woman, referred to as Jane Doe, to CNN, disclosing that threats have been made against her to silence or harm her if she does not drop her civil lawsuit. Giuffra expressed his own disdain for those threats, saying, "I'm not afraid of these people," but emphasizing the "disgusting" actions of those involved.

Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff addressed the incident on Saturday, promising an investigation into the role of fraternities and sororities following the uproar over the university's handling of the rape allegations. He noted that belonging to a group should not absolve individuals of personal responsibility. Following the initial lawsuit, prosecutors in Tompkins County, New York, have faced criticism for their handling of the 2024 allegations.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently appointed state Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to investigate the case. Donald Trump, who has previously criticized James, voiced his disapproval of the decision to appoint her. Giuffra urged against politicizing the case, emphasizing that it is not a political issue.