NY's governor appoints special prosecutor in Cornell frat rape investigation
Summary
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has appointed the state attorney general as a special prosecutor to investigate an alleged gang rape at Cornell University. The case, involving a woman who said she was drugged and raped by members of a fraternity in 2024, was reopened after new evidence and a civil lawsuit brought public attention.Key Facts
- The alleged attack happened in 2024 at a fraternity house at Cornell University.
- The woman, called Jane Doe in court documents, claims she was drugged and raped by seven men known as the "Cornell Seven."
- The case was originally handled by Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten, who did not file charges due to lack of evidence.
- New evidence, including a Snapchat chat from fraternity members, prompted the case to be reopened.
- Governor Hochul removed Van Houten from the case due to concerns about how it was handled.
- The New York State Attorney General, Letitia James, is now leading the investigation and may prosecute if warranted.
- Jane Doe also filed a civil lawsuit against Cornell University, accusing it of failing to protect her or punish the accused men properly.
- Governor Hochul and Attorney General James plan to give an update on the investigation soon.
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