Cornell University Faces Scrutiny Over Handling of Sexual Assault Case

Pedestrians walk on the campus at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., October 1, 2026. The university’s president has addressed serious concerns following a lawsuit alleging a 2024 gang rape at a fraternity house.

In an eight-minute video statement released by Cornell, President Michael I. Kotlikoff acknowledged the need for a better response to a female student’s sexual assault report. The allegations were reported to both Cornell’s police and other officials weeks after the incident.

“We don’t have all the answers, but we are committed to investigating and finding the answers our community deserves,” Kotlikoff stated. “We must work diligently to prevent such incidents from happening again.”

A former student, Jane Doe, sued Cornell and seven former students last month, claiming she was drugged and repeatedly raped at the Chi Phi fraternity in October 2024.

Kotlikoff described recent days as among the most difficult in Cornell’s history, with the incident raising questions about sexual assault, dehumanization, and the social culture around alcohol and drugs.

Jane Doe initially reported the allegations to Cornell University police and Title IX investigators soon after the alleged assault. She also informed the campus health clinic. According to the lawsuit, Doe said she initially consented to sexual contact with acquaintances at the fraternity while intoxicated, but later was drugged and raped by others, unable to consent.

The district attorney of Tompkins County opted not to file charges, citing incomplete transcripts from Doe’s interview with Cornell Police.

“As a community, we must foster a culture where sexual assault is inexcusable,” Kotlikoff emphasized. “Education on consent and body autonomy are vital.”

Governor Kathy Hochul recently appointed Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor in the case, criticizing the investigations’ handling. Kotlikoff welcomed this decision and announced that the university’s board of trustees will conduct an independent review with an outside law firm.

Kotlikoff pledged support for legislative changes to New York’s sexual assault laws and assured of actions for transparency, bolstered prevention and education efforts, and examining fraternities’ roles on campus.