New York Governor Kathy Hochul has publicly criticized how the alleged gang rape case involving six Cornell University students was handled by local authorities. She announced the appointment of Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to take over the investigation, citing loss of faith in the local district attorney’s conduct in the matter.
The case dates back to 2024, when a woman identified only as Jane Doe filed a lawsuit accusing several Cornell students of gang rape. The original investigation was closed without charges, but renewed attention followed the accuser’s recent legal action against seven fraternity members and Cornell University itself.
Governor Hochul expressed concern over the failure of both campus police and the county prosecutor to adequately protect the accuser or conduct a thorough inquiry. She emphasized that the victim had shared detailed information with police that was reportedly omitted in prosecutor reports.
Concerns About Investigation Procedures
Governor Hochul highlighted troubling details in how the local district attorney’s office managed the case. According to her statements, the district attorney did not conduct interviews with the accuser nor other involved parties, nor did they request a full transcript of the police account. She remarked on the incongruity of these omissions given the serious nature of the allegations.
The Tompkins County District Attorney, Matthew Van Houten, responsible for the initial closure of the investigation, cited discrepancies in the accuser’s sworn statement about being drugged and unable to consent as a reason for not bringing charges initially. He reopened the case after the new lawsuit emerged.
Attorney General Letitia James To Lead Investigation
Attorney General James acknowledged that the investigation would take time but committed her office to a comprehensive review. She outlined plans to collect evidence and conduct interviews as part of the renewed inquiry, aiming for thoroughness despite public demand for swift answers.
Cornell University’s Response
Cornell University confirmed it initiated its own comprehensive investigation related to the allegations. The university announced the suspension of the Chi Phi fraternity implicated in the lawsuit and has implemented disciplinary measures. Cornell issued statements supporting the appointment of the Attorney General as special prosecutor and expressed commitment to an independent external review of how the case was handled internally.
