New York Governor appoints special prosecutor in Cornell sexual assault case

Governor Kathy Hochul said the investigation of a Cornell University sexual assault case fell short of basic standards, accusing campus police and the Tompkins County district attorney of mishandling the victim's report. She noted that a six-page police summary was sent to the district attorney without the full interview transcript, and that the district attorney did not interview the complainant.

At a news conference, Hochul announced that Attorney General Letitia James would serve as special prosecutor. James described the matter as “an active criminal investigation” and promised a thorough and impartial inquiry.

"Every New Yorker deserves to know that when they report a crime, it will be investigated fully and fairly, that they will be seen and heard, that is the promise of our justice system," James said.

Hochul also called for legislative changes to the state's voluntary intoxication provisions in sexual assault cases, urging lawmakers to act promptly. The Cornell University administration expressed support for the governor's decision, and the district attorney, Matt Van Houten, said he would cooperate with the attorney general after being removed from the case.