Cornell Student's Texts Reveal Concerns Over Rumors Following Alleged Assault
Text messages from a Cornell student alleging gang rape by fraternity members reveal her distress over rumors circulating about the incident, as she sought to identify those spreading gossip.
A Cornell University student, who has accused seven fraternity members of gang rape, expressed her distress in text messages regarding rumors about her alleged sexual encounter at a party. Just days after the incident, she reached out to Matthew Ingalls, a fraternity brother, stating that the rumors were causing her significant stress and claiming that 'everybody knows' about the situation.
Ingalls responded with sympathy, acknowledging the rapid spread of gossip at the university. He described the behavior of those discussing the incident as 'fan behavior' and criticized the individuals for their involvement. The student, referred to as Jane Doe, conveyed her frustration, stating that the rumors were 'RUINING my life' and that she felt her reputation was destroyed.
In the exchange, Doe suggested that jealousy was fueling the gossip, while also expressing her belief that societal attitudes towards sexuality were evolving. She mentioned her suspicion that another fraternity brother, Jonathan Newell, was spreading information about the incident. Ingalls denied that Newell had shared anything, suggesting that upperclassmen might be responsible for the rumors.
Following the text exchanges, Doe reported the alleged rape to campus police and requested a rape kit at an emergency room. Ingalls and Newell were among the fraternity members named in Doe's lawsuit, which led to their expulsion from the university, although no criminal charges were filed at the time.