Cornell hires ex-Justice Dept official Yates to review rape claims response

Cornell University has engaged former U.S. Justice Department lawyer Sally Yates to conduct an independent review of how the institution handled a student's allegations of gang rape, a case that has sparked widespread scrutiny and protests. Yates, now a partner at King & Spalding, will examine the university's response to the student's claims of being sexually assaulted by multiple men during a fraternity party in October 2024.

The student, identified as Jane Doe in a lawsuit against Cornell and seven fraternity members, claims the school inadequately investigated and punished the accused. Student demonstrators rallied in solidarity with Jane Doe, demanding more stringent action against sexual violence on campus. A newly established Special Committee of the Cornell University Board of Trustees granted Yates full independence for her review.

Jane Doe's attorney, Thomas Giuffra, had not yet commented on the investigation by Tuesday. Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff described the alleged sexual assault case as a "defining moment" the university must address. In her lawsuit, filed last month, Jane Doe alleged she was drugged and sexually assaulted after becoming incapacitated at a Chi Phi fraternity party.

She reported the incident to police weeks later, resulting in both an internal university investigation and a law enforcement probe, yet criminal charges were not filed. In response, Cornell shut down the Chi Phi chapter and disciplined the involved fraternity members with expulsions and other sanctions.