US college suspends frat parties after alleged gang rape

Cornell University has announced it will ban parties and social events at fraternity houses until the end of the academic year following an alleged gang rape incident. The decision comes after a lawsuit was filed by a former student, Jane Doe, accusing seven men of sexually assaulting her at a campus party in 2024. Cornell's president, Michael Kotlikoff, stated that the suspension of fraternity activities is a measure to allow the university to thoroughly review fraternity life and determine how it can be made safer.

The Interfraternity Council, which oversees the fraternities, did not respond to a request for comment. The case was reopened by prosecutors after the lawsuit was filed, and New York Attorney General Letitia James was appointed as an independent special prosecutor to investigate the allegations. Despite criticism from students, faculty, and alumni, none of the named individuals have been criminally charged.

Cornell administration has faced student protests, a no-confidence resolution from faculty, and public outcry over the university's handling of the situation. In response, the university plans to hire additional staff to support survivors of sexual assault and work with the New York State Police to investigate incidents. According to a recent survey, 35% of undergraduate women reported experiencing non-consensual sexual contact since entering Cornell.