Title IX Investigation at Cornell University
CBS News New York has been examining records related to Cornell University’s Title IX investigation of an alleged gang rape at a fraternity. The records provide insight into Jane Doe’s account of events and the surrounding circumstances as remembered by others. This includes interviews with Doe, six of the seven men named in Doe’s civil lawsuit, and 20 witnesses.
Some details in the records are graphic and disturbing. A roommate reported that the morning after the incident at Cornell’s Chi Phi house in October 2024, Doe was laughing but seemed shocked. She did not label the incident as rape or assault at that time. Another roommate recalled Doe saying she was uncomfortable. A week later, Doe allegedly told one man, “You had penetrative sex with me. I had so much ketamine, my eyes were crossed, and you still had sex with me.” These statements are part of Cornell’s Title IX investigation transcripts, distributed in January 2025.
In a November interview, Doe stated she didn’t express consent and mentioned being tired and sometimes urged to take more substances. She could not determine when she lost the capacity to make decisions and felt discomfort with one of the men. The accused men also provided their accounts. One admitted asking to take ketamine from Doe’s body, claiming she consented. Another, Scott Kretzschmar, claimed minimal involvement and denied seeing Doe naked or using drugs. Kretzschmar stated her response to his inquiry about her well-being was “I’m good,” without appearing inebriated.
The lawsuit cites different allegations against the seven men, with four accused of rape. Kretzschmar is accused of snorting ketamine off Doe’s body, which his attorney, Jeremy Saland, denies. Saland criticized the Title IX process, claiming bias towards Doe. Cornell’s Title IX process included months of review, hearings by trained faculty and staff, leading to sanctions such as expulsions and suspensions.
The gang rape allegations have provoked widespread concern and scrutiny over Cornell University and law enforcement’s handling of the case. Although the district attorney initially opted not to press charges, the investigation has been reopened. CBS News New York continues to investigate the records.