Investigation Reopened in Cornell University Rape Allegation Case

Authorities have announced that the investigation into an alleged rape at Cornell University in 2024 will be reopened. This decision follows a lawsuit filed earlier this month. The woman involved claims she was drugged and raped by multiple individuals at a fraternity house over several hours.

Reopening of the Investigation

Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten stated in a written statement that he was asked by the community to revisit the decision on pursuing criminal charges against seven fraternity members. The process has commenced with discussions involving Jane Doe and her legal team. Once appropriate charges are determined, the case will be presented to the Tompkins County Grand Jury.

“The Grand Jury will be able to consider the testimony of Jane Doe as well as any new evidence raised by the allegations of the civil complaint. Upon a vote to indict any involved individuals, we will prosecute the charges to the fullest extent of the law,” the statement continued.

Allegations in the Lawsuit

The lawsuit states that Doe was 20 years old in 2024 when she was allegedly drugged and raped at the Chi Phi fraternity house. Her attorney, Thomas Giuffra, noted that after an investigation, two accused individuals were expelled, but no arrests were made. Doe claims she visited a friend at the house while intoxicated and was pressured into using ketamine. A message was reportedly sent to a fraternity group chat, leading to further assaults.

Doe reported the assault to the university police three weeks later.

District Attorney’s Response

Van Houten indicated that the current allegations differ from what was described to his office in November 2024. At that time, Doe’s statement described her participation in drug use and sexual activity as consensual. The November 2024 decision was based on this statement, not the civil lawsuit filed almost two years later.

“Multiple prosecutors and investigators reviewed Jane Doe’s statement and determined that the facts set forth did not constitute a crime. The decision was not about the difficulty of proof but based on objective facts,” Van Houten stated. He clarified the credibility of Jane Doe was never in question.

The Ithaca Police Department confirmed the incident was never reported to them and expressed their disturbance over the allegations.

Attorney’s Remarks

Giuffra responded with a statement after the investigation was reopened, highlighting the trauma and emotional state of Jane Doe after the assault. He expressed skepticism about the thoroughness of the initial investigation, suggesting that more interviews and evidence collection were needed for such a serious crime.

“The defensive posture from the DA’s statements suggests recognition of failures. We support efforts to prosecute those responsible and will cooperate to ensure accountability,” he added.

Institutional Responses

Cornell University showed support for the DA’s decision to give the victim’s story a platform. The university conducted a separate Title IX investigation and imposed temporary suspensions and other measures. A hearing resulted in expulsions and suspensions. The Chi Phi fraternity involved was closed and remains barred from campus, a step emphasizing the accountability imposed by the university.

Chi Phi national headquarters issued a statement condemning sexual violence and emphasizing the need for dignity and respect for those involved in such allegations.

Cornell University maintains a task force on sexual assaults and provides a platform for students to report incidents of bias, discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct.