U.S. prosecutors reopened an investigation into an alleged gang rape at Cornell University following claims the college failed to properly punish the men involved. The case, which involved seven Chi Phi fraternity members, has reignited debate over sexual assault on U.S. campuses.
U.S. prosecutors, including Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten, have decided to reconsider the case after new allegations from the victim's lawsuit. The victim, who was drugged with ketamine and raped in 2024, claims the fraternity members were too lenient in their punishment.
Cornell University has defended its actions, stating that the suspects were given opportunities to mitigate their conduct through essays and workshops. The university has closed the fraternity and suspended some members, but the case has sparked criticism over the lack of severe consequences.
The case has drawn attention from public figures, including British actor Florence Pugh and Democratic lawmaker Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who have condemned the institution for protecting the perpetrators and allowing them to graduate with Ivy League degrees.