Cornell University Sexual Assault Investigation Reopened

The investigation into an alleged rape at Cornell University in 2024 has been reopened. Officials announced the decision after a lawsuit was filed by a woman who accused multiple individuals of drugging and raping her over several hours at a fraternity house.

Reopening the Investigation

Tompkins County District Attorney, Matthew Van Houten, stated, “I have been asked by the community to revisit the decision on whether to pursue criminal charges against the seven fraternity members. I have initiated this process, starting with discussions with Jane Doe and her attorneys. When the appropriate charges are determined, the case will be presented to the Tompkins County Grand Jury.”

He further explained that the Grand Jury will consider Jane Doe’s testimony and any new evidence from the civil complaint. Should the Grand Jury vote to indict, the charges will be pursued rigorously.

Allegations Detailed in the Lawsuit

According to the lawsuit, in 2024, Doe, then 20 years old, claimed she was drugged and raped at the Chi Phi fraternity house. Her attorney, Thomas Giuffra, alleged that after an investigation, two of the accused were expelled, with no arrests made.

Doe recounted visiting a friend while intoxicated, where she alleged that two fraternity members pressured her into snorting what was purported to be ketamine. Subsequently, a message was sent to the fraternity’s Snapchat group indicating that a woman was available for sex. More men allegedly arrived, and she reported being raped for hours. She filed a report with the university’s police about three weeks later.

Differing Accounts Presented by the DA

District Attorney Van Houten indicated that Jane Doe’s original statement in November 2024 did not match the current accusations. He stated, “Jane Doe’s sworn statement did not allege non-consensual drugging or gang rape. On the contrary, Doe described participation in drug use and sexual conduct as voluntary.”

Van Houten noted that his office’s earlier decision was based on Doe’s initial statement, not the later civil lawsuit, and indicated that the discrepancy led him to contact Jane Doe’s attorneys for clarification.

The Ithaca Police Department told CBS News New York that the incident was never reported to them and expressed concern over the allegations.

Response from Jane Doe’s Attorney

Attorney Giuffra reacted to the reopening of the investigation, stating, “In the days following the assault, she was traumatized, numb, and unable to function. She was in self-preservation mode.” Giuffra indicated concerns about the thoroughness of the initial police investigation, as Doe reportedly only spoke with the officer who took her complaint.

He criticized the DA’s response, suggesting an attempt to deflect blame, but expressed willingness to cooperate with efforts to hold those responsible accountable.

Statements from Cornell University and Chi Phi

Cornell University expressed support for the DA’s decision to reopen the case, highlighting its own Title IX investigation. This investigation led to various sanctions, including expulsions and suspensions. It emphasized that suggestions of leniency were inaccurate.

Furthermore, the Chi Phi fraternity’s national headquarters expressed deep concern over the allegations. It reaffirmed its condemnation of sexual violence and commitment to supporting a fair legal process while emphasizing respect for the dignity and safety of individuals.