Sally Yates Leads Cornell Investigation Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

Cornell University has appointed Sally Yates, a former deputy attorney general from the Obama administration, to lead an independent review of the university’s handling of sexual assault allegations. Yates, who was dismissed by President Donald Trump during his first term, brings extensive Justice Department experience and public recognition from her past confrontations with Trump.

Background of the Investigation

The scrutiny on Cornell’s handling of sexual assault cases intensified following an alleged gang rape at a fraternity house in October 2024. Yates and her law firm, King & Spalding, will access internal documents, including case files, records of Greek organizations, communications with law enforcement, and disciplinary hearing documentation.

Sally Yates’ Career

Yates served as deputy attorney general after her nomination by President Barack Obama in January 2015. Her tenure at the Justice Department included work as U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Georgia. During the transition to the Trump administration, Yates continued as acting attorney general until Trump dismissed her for instructing DOJ lawyers not to defend an executive order limiting travel from several Muslim-majority countries.

Sally Yates stated, “My responsibility is to ensure that the position of the Department of Justice is not only legally defensible, but is informed by our best view of what the law is after consideration of all the facts.”

In May 2017, Yates testified to the Senate Judiciary subcommittee about Russian interference in the 2016 election, detailing her warnings about then-national security adviser Michael Flynn.

Independent Review Details

Cornell University cited Yates’ experience in higher education and her background in conducting independent investigations as reasons for her selection. Her review will focus on Cornell’s policies and procedures related to handling sexual assault and dating violence cases. This review runs alongside a separate state investigation led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, focusing on specific cases at the university.

Sally Yates’ Previous Investigations

Yates previously led an investigation into the National Women’s Soccer League, examining sexual misconduct and abuse issues. Her investigation revealed widespread misconduct and a lack of effective response from teams and officials. Her report suggested stronger background checks and clearer procedures for reporting misconduct.

Cornell’s partnership with Yates aims to enhance their response to sexual misconduct allegations and address current concerns about their handling practices.