Cornell University Gang Rape Allegations Under Scrutiny

Cornell University is facing scrutiny after a woman alleged she was gang raped by students in 2024. The alleged victim, Jane Doe, confidently stated in 2024 to police that she was sexually assaulted, according to transcripts cited by her attorney, Thomas Giuffra. Despite her statement, Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten claimed on Monday that Doe never mentioned rape. NPR questioned whether Cornell’s campus police provided Van Houten with all investigatory information. The university has not responded to these inquiries.

CBS News New York referenced a transcript from an interview between Cornell University Police Department and the alleged victim. However, NPR has not obtained a copy of these transcripts. Van Houten noted Doe’s statement involved voluntary drug use and consensual sexual conduct, contradicting her account. No criminal charges have been filed against the seven men she accuses. Van Houten is seeking the transcript from Cornell, although the timeline or cooperation level remains uncertain.

Doe filed a lawsuit against the accused men and Cornell University in September. Amid backlash, Cornell announced an independent investigation into the handling of the case. This decision follows a Title IX investigation that led to student suspensions and expulsions, though details and numbers remain undisclosed due to privacy laws. WSKG reported Cornell’s FAQ page on the case has been edited. Changes include removing references to sharing all investigatory information with the DA’s office.

Cornell affirmed the initiation of an external probe. Governor Kathy Hochul called for this investigation and indicated plans for tougher sexual assault laws on New York campuses. Hochul emphasized a cultural change is necessary statewide. Updates on this evolving situation will follow.