Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff has expressed sorrow regarding the alleged gang rape of a student at a fraternity house in 2024, describing the situation as "deeply disturbing" and committing to increased transparency amid public outrage over the university's response. In a video message to the Cornell community on Saturday, Kotlikoff stated, "My heart aches when I think of what she experienced," and characterized the past week as one of the most challenging periods in the university's history. He noted that the incident raises significant issues related to sexual assault, dehumanization, and aspects of party culture, including alcohol and drug use.
The woman, referred to in court documents as Jane Doe, alleges she was assaulted by multiple members of the Chi Phi fraternity and has filed a lawsuit against the university and seven former students. The scrutiny over Cornell's handling of the case increased following comments from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who indicated that newly released information had diminished her confidence in the local prosecutor's decision not to bring charges. In response, Hochul appointed state Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to oversee the criminal investigation, stating that she would not allow the case to be overlooked.
The case has also brought attention to the "voluntary intoxication loophole" in New York law, which complicates the prosecution of sexual assaults involving victims who consumed alcohol or drugs voluntarily, even if they later became incapacitated. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten cited this legal provision when explaining his initial decision not to pursue charges. Hochul has committed to advocating for changes to this law.
During a student assembly hearing on Thursday, several attendees called for Kotlikoff's resignation. In his video message, Kotlikoff reiterated his support for an independent review of the university's handling of the case and announced that Cornell's Board of Trustees would provide further details next week. He also called for a thorough examination of the role of fraternities and sororities in campus life. Attorney General James has described the case as an "active criminal investigation."