Independent Review Initiated at Cornell University Over Sexual Misconduct Handling

Cornell University has announced an independent review of its handling of sexual misconduct complaints, to be led by former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates. Serving during the Obama administration, Yates will evaluate the university’s policies, methods, and resources concerning sexual harassment, assault, and related issues following a reported rape incident at a fraternity house in 2024.

The review will also look into how reports of sexual misconduct are managed, the support available to students, disciplinary actions, and the role of campus police. University trustee Anne Meinig Smalling stated, “Sally Yates brings significant experience, independence, and judgment to this task.” She emphasized the need for a comprehensive examination of Cornell’s approach to preventing and responding to sexual misconduct and anticipated recommendations for improvement.

The decision to involve Yates comes after allegations surfaced that Chi Phi fraternity leadership advised a potential witness to remain silent to protect the fraternity’s reputation. Investigations into the possible cover-up followed, with witnesses reporting group messages discussing the situation.

These developments trail an incident where a woman, Jane Doe, accused several fraternity brothers of sexual assault. Her lawsuit claims involvement of fraternity members, sparking national discourse on campus violence against women, with public figures like Florence Pugh and Mariska Hargitay discussing the matter, alongside New York Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Ocasio-Cortez commented, “When I read about what happened at Cornell, those men posted in a group chat. That means it was normal to them. We cannot protect those spaces anymore.”

Yates’s review will encompass the university’s response to Jane Doe’s allegations against Chi Phi fraternity associates. Smalling emphasized Cornell’s dedication to understanding both the past events and ensuring future robust and equitable responses.

The school’s leadership is keen for a swift yet detailed analysis from Yates. Meanwhile, New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James to lead a criminal inquiry into the incident, questioning the initial handling of the case by Tompkins County Attorney Matthew Van Houten.

Van Houten had initially opted not to bring charges, citing New York’s “voluntary intoxication loophole.” Governor Hochul emphasized the essential support and protection deserved by the student.

President Donald Trump criticized Hochul’s appointment of James, expressing doubts about the fairness of the investigation she will lead owing to her past conflicts with him.