New York Attorney General Letitia James Initiates Review of Cornell University Gang Rape Case

New York Attorney General Letitia James is launching a review of the "Cornell 7" gang rape case, according to her office. James stated that she has initiated a civil review of Cornell University’s protocols following a lawsuit filed by a former student who claimed she was raped at the Chi Phi fraternity house in 2024. "My office has civil jurisdiction, not criminal jurisdiction," James explained on Spectrum News Wednesday evening. She noted that the review will focus on how Cornell handled the situation and whether updates to their protocols are necessary to enhance security for all students, particularly victims of sexual assault. The alleged victim criticized Cornell’s internal Title IX investigation process in her lawsuit, claiming it involved 12 hearings and resulted in only two out of the seven accused being expelled. Cornell University has denied these claims, stating it acted in accordance with police recommendations and banned the Chi Phi chapter from campus. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten has also reopened a criminal investigation into the alleged rape. James’ comments come amid calls from other officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, for further investigations into the case, which has sparked significant national attention. During a campaign event in Ithaca, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized the university and other elite institutions for allegedly fostering a culture of sexual violence.