Top US University Bans Student Parties After Allegations of Drug and Sexual Abuse

Cornell University, a highly regarded institution in the United States, has suspended all social events at student fraternity houses until the end of the current academic year. This decision came after a lawsuit was filed alleging that a woman was drugged and sexually assaulted by multiple individuals at a party in 2024. The victim, identified as Jane Doe in court documents, filed the lawsuit last month, prompting increased scrutiny of the university's handling of sexual assault cases.

Cornell's President, Michael Kotlikoff, expressed deep concern over the incident and acknowledged that the university must address women's safety concerns and admit to institutional shortcomings. He warned that students breaching the new restrictions could face suspension from the university. In response to the allegations, the university has bolstered its support for sexual assault survivors by adding staff members and improving its complaint-reporting system.

Furthermore, specially trained New York State Police officers will aid in the investigation. The handling of the case by local prosecutors has also raised questions, with Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten stating that his office received only a brief statement from the woman and some social media posts from Cornell in 2024.

State officials have expressed concerns regarding the decision not to prosecute and the absence of interviews with independent witnesses. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has appointed Attorney General Letitia James to investigate the matter. The woman's lawyer mentioned that she had also faced threats following the alleged assault.