New York prosecutors have reopened an investigation into a 2024 alleged gang rape at Cornell University after a victim provided new evidence suggesting the university was too lenient in handling the case. The seven men involved in the incident, part of the Chi Phi fraternity, were initially only suspended and not arrested, with some expelled. The reopening comes as the victim, Jane Doe, alleges she was drugged and raped by seven men during a party at the fraternity house.
The investigation was initially closed in 2024, with prosecutors citing the victim's initial statement not meeting the legal threshold for charges. However, new allegations from the victim's civil lawsuit, including a Snapchat group message advertising 'free pussy' during the incident, have led to a reconsideration. District Attorney Matthew Van Houten stated that the victim's latest allegations, which differ from her initial statement, necessitate a review of the case.
Cornell University has defended its handling of the case, rejecting claims that it did not impose consequential punishments on the accused. The university's vice president of university relations, Kyle Kimball, denied allegations that the suspects were offered opportunities to mitigate their conduct. The case has sparked debate over campus sexual assault policies and the balance between victim protection and institutional accountability.
The victim's lawsuit seeks financial damages and highlights concerns about the university's response to the incident. Prominent figures, including British actor Florence Pugh and Democratic lawmaker Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have criticized the case, calling for stricter accountability and reforms to prevent similar incidents on campuses.