David Bridges
A prosecutor in New York has renewed an inquiry into gang rape allegations involving a Cornell University fraternity. This action follows a widely circulated lawsuit from a woman who claims that seven students subjected her to drugs and alcohol before sexually assaulting her in 2024.
RELATED: Former Student Shares Allegations of Gang Rape in Lawsuit Against Cornell University & 7 Chi Phi Fraternity Members
Key Insights Into the Reopened Investigation of Alleged Rape at Cornell University
Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten announced on Monday (Sept. 28) that his office is preparing to present evidence to a grand jury. This announcement comes amid public inquiries regarding the absence of criminal prosecutions in this case.
The lawsuit refers to the female victim by a pseudonym. Filed on Sept. 16, the complaint details an alleged sexual assault at the Chi Phi fraternity house on Cornell’s campus in October 2024. According to the lawsuit, the assault occurred after the victim was coerced into using ketamine, consuming marijuana, and drinking alcohol. She is suing seven individuals, the Chi Phi fraternity, Cornell University, a bar in Ithaca, and others, seeking undisclosed damages.
The victim claims she reported the incident to campus police at the time; however, DA Van Houten stated that the initial sworn statement she provided to authorities did not mention the gang rape or drugging. He also noted that he has not been contacted by the woman’s attorney regarding her statement or a request to reconsider the decision against prosecution.
“While I typically avoid discussing ongoing criminal investigations publicly, the community’s concern stemming from incomplete news and social media coverage necessitates an explanation for the absence of criminal charges,” Van Houten expressed in a statement.
Following the filing of the lawsuit, Van Houten’s office has received numerous phone calls, voicemails, and emails about the case. Many individuals are seeking clarification, while others have resorted to making threats and insults.
Cornell University’s Response to the Renewed Investigation
Cornell University issued a statement supporting the district attorney’s decision to reopen the investigation. The institution noted that it carried out its own inquiry and imposed sanctions, including the expulsion of certain students and suspensions for others. the on-campus Chi Phi chapter was closed in 2024 and remains prohibited from campus activities.
As of Monday, university officials had not responded to inquiries about the specifics of the sanctions, such as the number of students expelled or suspended. They also refrained from commenting on reports that some students were allegedly tasked with writing essays as part of their punishment.
“Any suggestion that the university did not impose significant penalties on those involved is false,” the university stated. “Perpetuating the false narrative that there were minimal repercussions in this case is irresponsible, undermines the safety and support for survivors, and contributes to the underreporting of sexual assault.”
The institution reported that an internal disciplinary investigation was conducted in 2024. A panel composed of trained faculty and staff reviewed evidence over several days, allowing both the victim and the accused an opportunity to testify and present their cases.
No Response from Chi Phi or the Victim Amid Renewed Inquiry
As of Monday, the national chapter of Chi Phi had not responded to phone and email inquiries from the Associated Press. Similarly, the woman’s attorney had not provided comments regarding the prosecutor’s decision to reopen the investigation.
The lawsuit describes events that began as a night of celebration at a sorority and a local bar. It also accuses Cornell of failing to prevent the alleged assaults. The filing includes a photo purportedly showing a Snapchat group chat among fraternity members discussing sexual encounters with the woman, with messages advertising “Free p*ssy.”
RELATED: Mystikal Faces Up to 20 Years in Prison After Pleading Guilty to Third-Degree Rape Following 2022 Arrest (VIDEO)
Associated Press writers Dave Collins and John Seewer contributed to this report via the AP Newsroom.
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