New York Attorney General appointed special prosecutor in Cornell sexual assault case

Governor Kathy Hochul announced Friday that New York Attorney General Letitia James will serve as special prosecutor in the investigation of an alleged gang rape at Cornell University. Hochul said new reporting raised questions about the information used by the Tompkins County district attorney when it declined to prosecute the case.

"James will follow the facts. She'll examine the evidence and go wherever it leads, and if the evidence supports charges, she will pursue them," Hochul said.

Hochul added that the incident highlighted a perceived gap in state law regarding consent when a person is intoxicated, and she intends to work with legislators to address the issue.

James, speaking on the appointment, said her office will review the facts, gather evidence, interview witnesses and, if warranted, pursue prosecutions. She emphasized that the investigation will be thorough and independent.

"We will review the facts, gather evidence, interview witnesses and, if warranted, pursue prosecutions," James said.

A university spokesperson confirmed support for the special prosecutor appointment and an external review of Cornell's handling of the case. The university previously expelled two fraternity members and imposed suspensions and other sanctions on additional students after an internal investigation.

The alleged victim, who filed a lawsuit against the university and seven men, claims she was drugged and assaulted by multiple individuals at the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024. The Tompkins County district attorney had originally stated there was insufficient evidence for criminal charges, but announced the case would be reopened following the recent developments.

The district attorney's office has not yet responded to requests for comment.