Cornell University Faces Criticism Over Sexual Assault Case
Fox News correspondent Nate Foy reports on the latest in the Cornell University sexual assault allegations, highlighting the ongoing investigation and calls for New York Attorney General Letitia James to recuse herself from the case. The context for the coverage occurred during a segment on ‘Special Report.’
The Ithaca Common Council voted late Wednesday to halt issuing city permits to Cornell University and its student groups due to criticism over the university’s handling of rape allegations by a former student. The moratorium passed with a 9-1 vote, temporarily preventing Cornell from acquiring permits necessary for assemblies, parades, and events at Ithaca Commons, citing public safety concerns.
Some students and residents welcomed the decision, while certain graduate students voiced concerns about potential disruptions. The measure may lead to canceled events, lost deposits, and limited access to venues and conferences. The moratorium will remain until November 5, unless extended.
Additionally, the council included an amendment for Cornell to refer investigations related to sexual and violent crimes to the Ithaca Police Department, though enforcement remains uncertain.
The moratorium follows a lawsuit in September by a former student, Jane Doe, accusing seven Chi Phi fraternity members of drugging and raping her on October 19, 2024. She claimed intoxication before arriving at the frat house and pressure to use more substances. The accused have denied wrongdoing, with some asserting consensual activity and others denying involvement.
Jane Doe’s allegations sparked protests at Cornell University, with students calling for the resignation of the university president.
The fraternity was suspended on November 8, 2024, the day Doe reported the assault to campus police. Initially, Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten declined charges, stating Doe’s account described conscious and consensual conduct.
However, CBS New York accessed a police interview transcript where Doe described her assault with certainty. Van Houten said he lacked access to this full transcript. The DA’s office reopened the case, noting differences between Doe’s lawsuit and her previous statement.
Jane Doe’s lawyer, Thomas Giuffra, explained she believed the investigation remained active, although charges weren’t pursued. Van Houten had instructed Cornell police to notify her of the decision, but he never communicated directly with her or her lawyer.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul assigned the case to Attorney General Letitia James, questioning the original police investigation and the DA’s decision. This step bypasses Van Houten, reflecting Hochul’s lost confidence and public skepticism.
Recently, a person named in Doe’s lawsuit sought to have James removed from the case, citing a perceived bias from her social media comments on the incident.
The Associated Press and Fox News Digital contributed to this report.