Cornell suspends fraternity parties amid scrutiny of alleged 2024 assault
publishers 106articles 177first reported 26 Sep, 21:09 UTCdeveloping since 27 Sep · 29 editions
Cornell University has suspended parties and social events at Interfraternity Council houses through the end of the 2026-27 academic year as the school faces mounting criticism over its handling of an alleged gang rape at a fraternity house in 2024.
President Michael Kotlikoff said the suspension would allow Cornell to conduct a thorough review of fraternity life and determine whether and how it can safely continue. The university also announced a “zero tolerance” policy under which violations would result in the immediate suspension of a chapter.
A former undergraduate identified as Jane Doe filed a lawsuit in September against Cornell and seven men, alleging that she was drugged and sexually assaulted by multiple members of the Chi Phi fraternity after attending a party in October 2024. The seven men have denied the allegations, saying either that sexual activity was consensual or that they were not involved. None has been criminally charged.
The initial investigation was conducted by campus police and referred to the Tompkins County district attorney, who declined to prosecute. Prosecutors later reopened the case, and New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James as an independent special prosecutor.
Cornell closed the Chi Phi chapter and disciplined several students after learning of the case. Kotlikoff said the university will now work more closely with New York State Police, add a case manager to support people reporting sexual misconduct and develop safer alternatives to fraternity parties. Former Deputy U.S. Attorney General Sally Yates will review the university’s response.
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