Cornell University Alleged Gang Rape Lawsuit Investigated Anew

Mahsa Saeidi, a journalist with five Emmy Awards and a licensed attorney, began her work as an investigative reporter for CBS News New York in March 2024. CBS News New York has obtained new details regarding the alleged gang rape lawsuit involving Cornell University, as the Tompkins County district attorney reopens the criminal case. The victim’s initial statement reportedly does not align with the lawsuit’s claims.

New Evidence from Fraternity’s Snapchat

Additional footage from a fraternity’s group Snapchat conversation on the night of the alleged assault at Chi Phi fraternity house has been exclusively accessed by CBS News New York. A message at 1:42 a.m. suggested a woman was available for sex, with a follow-up message confirming, ‘Yea.’ Jane Doe, the woman bringing the lawsuit, claims she was drugged and raped there. Her attorney, Thomas Giuffra, mentioned no arrests were made in connection to the alleged incident.

Defense Attorney’s Response

Scott Kretzschmar, one of the seven accused in the lawsuit, is represented by attorney Jeremy Saland. The lawsuit claims all seven individuals committed sexual assault and battery. Specifically, it accuses Kretzschmar of pouring ketamine onto Jane Doe and snorting it. Saland denied this allegation, referencing a hair follicle test showing no presence of ketamine in Kretzschmar’s system. This test has yet to be independently reviewed by CBS News New York. Saland also stated that Kretzschmar noticed the Snapchat messages, briefly entered the room, and left without witnessing any distress.

Criminal Investigation Reopened

District Attorney Matthew Van Houten has reopened the investigation, noting discrepancies between Jane Doe’s statement in November 2024 and the lawsuit. Originally, she described the drug use and sexual activity as voluntary and consensual. Her attorney, Giuffra, argues the original police report aligns with the lawsuit, claiming the investigation overlooked evidence like the fraternity’s group chat. A senior prosecutor is now reviewing the case for grand jury consideration; Doe can testify, and new evidence may be presented.

Saland reiterated confidence in the case’s resolution, anticipating no charges will be filed. Cornell University has expressed support for the DA’s decision while stating that months of Title IX investigations led to sanctions.

Andrew Miltenberg, representing another defendant, Gillio Lopes, made a statement denying the allegations against Lopes. He emphasized that these public claims differ from earlier charges reported and investigated by the university. Miltenberg stressed the importance of evidence-based judgments, not assumptions made by lawsuits or media reports.