New York Attorney General Opens Criminal Investigation into Cornell University Rape Allegations

<p>New York Attorney General Letitia James announced on October 2, 2026, that her office has initiated an "active criminal investigation" into allegations of gang rape at Cornell University in 2024. James stated that New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed her as an independent special prosecutor for the case.</p><p>"This is now an active criminal investigation led by the office of the attorney general," James said. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that every crime report is investigated thoroughly and fairly, affirming the justice system's promise to the public.</p><p>Hochul signed an executive order on October 1, 2026, appointing James as the special prosecutor, citing concerns about the investigation conducted by the Cornell Police Department and the decision by the Tompkins County District Attorney not to prosecute an alleged sexual assault on campus in October 2024.</p><p>A woman identified as Jane Doe filed a civil complaint in September 2026, accusing seven members of Cornell's Chi Phi fraternity of sexual assault and rape. The complaint alleges that she was intoxicated by alcohol and drugs provided by fraternity members, leading to her being sexually assaulted and raped.</p><p>The Tompkins County District Attorney's Office previously reviewed the case and chose not to pursue criminal charges. In a statement, the office noted that Jane Doe’s sworn statement did not allege that she was drugged against her will or gang raped, describing her participation in drug use and sexual conduct as voluntary and consensual.</p><p>Following the announcement of the investigation, District Attorney Matthew Van Houten expressed support for Attorney General James's appointment and stated that he trusts her to examine the facts and apply the law. He acknowledged that his office was not provided with the full picture by the university.</p><p>Cornell University also issued a statement supporting the appointment of a special prosecutor and expressing commitment to an independent review of how the case was handled.</p><p>During the press conference, Hochul highlighted discrepancies in the information provided to the district attorney's office, stating that Jane Doe had communicated her experience of being raped, but that information was not included in the report sent by Cornell police.</p><p>Hochul also mentioned that Cornell University has reopened its investigation into the matter in conjunction with the attorney general's criminal investigation.</p>