Woman at centre of Cornell rape allegations targeted with threats, lawyer says
WASHINGTON: The woman who has alleged she was drugged and raped by Cornell University students has been the target of threats, her lawyer said on Sunday.
The woman accusing Cornell University students of drugging and raping her has been targeted with threats, according to her lawyer Thomas Giuffra. Giuffra told CNN that the accuser, known as Jane Doe, has received multiple threats, and he has also faced threats himself. Giuffra emphasized his determination to stand firm against these threats, stating, "I'm not afraid of these people."
The lawyer expressed disgust at the behavior of those making the threats, accusing them of trying to protect the status quo. The identity of Jane Doe has become a focal point of online discussions, with supporters using the hashtag #IamJaneDoe to show solidarity and counter attempts to publicly name her. Independent journalist Michael Tracey briefly mentioned what he believed to be Jane Doe's name before deleting it, citing concerns over the potential for further threats and harassment.
Tracey emphasized the need to examine the implications of such tactics in civil litigation, particularly when plaintiffs' attorneys use anonymity to introduce sensational allegations. Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff acknowledged the university's handling of the allegations and stated that the institution would review the role of fraternities and sororities on campus.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed state Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to investigate the case, drawing criticism from some quarters, including US President Donald Trump. Giuffra urged against politicizing the case, emphasizing that it is not related to politics.
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