Reopening of Investigation into Alleged Sexual Assault at Cornell University

Background of the Case

New information has emerged regarding the case of a former Cornell University student who alleges she was drugged and gang-raped at a fraternity house in October 2024. The woman, referred to as Jane Doe, was 20 years old at the time of the alleged incident. She has filed a civil lawsuit against seven former Chi Phi fraternity members and the university, claiming failure to protect her and prevent the alleged assault. Despite an internal investigation conducted by Cornell, criminal charges were not initially pursued.

Community Pressure and Legal Developments

Under community pressure, the Tompkins County District Attorney’s Office confirmed the reopening of the criminal investigation. The DA plans to present evidence to a grand jury. Discrepancies exist between Doe’s sworn statement from November 2024 and the allegations in her civil lawsuit. Her attorney suggests investigators did not adequately follow up.

Details of the Allegations

Doe’s lawsuit against the university and fraternity members outlines her visit to a friend at the Chi Phi fraternity while intoxicated. Allegedly, two fraternity members pressured her into taking ketamine, which led to the sexual assault. The suit claims a Snapchat message sent by a fraternity member indicated that Doe was available for sex, resulting in further assaults until the early morning hours.

The complaint notes that Doe reported the incident to university police three weeks later. Her attorney, Thomas Giuffra, emphasized that her contact with investigators was limited.

Cornell’s Internal Investigation

Cornell conducted a Title IX investigation and stated the accused had sanctions ranging from expulsions to suspensions. The fraternity chapter has been closed. Cornell disputed claims that the sanctions were minimal, asserting its actions reflected serious consequences.

Reopening of the Criminal Investigation

The DA plans to reassess the decision on criminal charges, citing differences between Doe’s original statement and the lawsuit’s allegations. Allegations of voluntary participation in drug use and sexual conduct during the initial statement are contrasted with claims in the lawsuit.

Giuffra challenges the sufficiency of the initial investigation, emphasizing the need for thorough interviews with survivors.

DA Van Houten expressed willingness to reevaluate based on new information in the civil suit and consultations with Doe’s legal team.

The grand jury will evaluate Doe’s testimony and potential new evidence. Should indictments occur, the DA’s office will prosecute fully.

Response from Accused Fraternity Member

Scott Kretzchmar, named in the lawsuit, denies the accusations. His attorney, Jeremy Saland, argues a Snapchat message is not proof of assault and describes Kretzchmar’s brief encounter with Doe as respectful and non-contact. Saland cites hair follicle test results indicating no ketamine use.

Saland awaits engagement from investigators regarding the renewed inquiry, declaring readiness to present exonerating evidence.