Cornell to commission independent review as prosecutors reopen alleged 2024 rape case
publishers 44articles 47first reported 28 Sep, 10:32 UTCdeveloping since 28 Sep · 4 editionstop 25 #16
Cornell University has agreed to commission an independent investigation into its handling of an alleged 2024 gang rape at a Chi Phi fraternity house, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday. The announcement followed the Tompkins County District Attorney’s decision to reopen a criminal investigation.
A former Cornell student sued the university and seven male students earlier in September, alleging that she was pressured to consume alcohol and ketamine, became incapacitated and was assaulted for hours in October 2024. The lawsuit accuses Cornell and the other defendants of failing to protect her and prevent the alleged assault. NPR said it was unable to reach the men named in the lawsuit for comment.
District Attorney Matthew Van Houten previously said a review of the police investigation found insufficient evidence to bring criminal charges. He said that decision relied on a six-page statement the woman signed after the incident. After new details appeared in the civil lawsuit, Van Houten reopened the inquiry and said he expected to present the case to a grand jury.
Cornell said its police department had provided the district attorney with the results of the university’s investigation. According to CBS News, the lawsuit says Cornell’s disciplinary process led to two accused students being expelled, while others received lesser sanctions, including suspensions and essays. The university also closed the Chi Phi fraternity. Cornell has declined to release the six-page investigative report, The Hill reported.
Hochul said she had directed state officials to consider further measures to strengthen protections for sexual-assault survivors.
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