ITHACA, N.Y. — October 5, 2026 — New York authorities have reopened a sexual-assault investigation involving a former Cornell University student after allegations against members of the Chi Phi fraternity triggered renewed scrutiny of the university’s response and the original criminal investigation.
The woman, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, alleges that she was sexually assaulted by several fraternity members at the Chi Phi house in October 2024. She was 20 at the time.
According to her civil lawsuit, she was heavily intoxicated and was given or encouraged to take ketamine before several men allegedly engaged in sexual activity with her while she was unable to consent.
Investigation reopened
The case was initially investigated in 2024, but Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten decided not to bring criminal charges.
Van Houten has said the evidence available at the time did not meet the legal standard required for prosecution and that there were differences between the woman’s original statement to investigators and allegations later contained in her civil lawsuit.
The case has now been taken over by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who was appointed special prosecutor after Gov. Kathy Hochul expressed concerns about the handling of the investigation.
Cornell conducted its own investigation
Cornell University says it conducted an extensive internal investigation after the allegations were reported.
University investigators interviewed dozens of witnesses and reviewed evidence connected with the fraternity. Cornell subsequently imposed disciplinary penalties on several students and withdrew recognition of the Chi Phi chapter.
Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff has since announced plans for an independent review of the university’s handling of the case.
Allegations disputed
The seven men named in the civil lawsuit have not been convicted of rape or other criminal offenses. The accused have disputed the allegations, with some saying the sexual encounters were consensual and others disputing their alleged involvement.
The reopened investigation will determine whether prosecutors believe there is sufficient evidence to bring criminal charges.
Students demand accountability
The case has generated protests and renewed debate over sexual assault, fraternity culture and university accountability.
Student groups are demanding greater transparency from Cornell and stronger protections for students who report sexual violence.
The case is now being investigated at the state level while Cornell conducts its own review.
Authorities have not announced any criminal charges in the reopened investigation.
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