Cornell University president vows ‘rigorous’ probe in gangrape case, shares new video: ‘My heart aches’

Cornell president orders independent review after 2024 assault allegations

Theindiapostdaily.com – Cornell University president vows rigorous action following allegations that a former student was drugged and gang-raped at a fraternity event in 2024. President Michael Kotlikoff said the university will support an independent review of its response while New York authorities conduct a renewed criminal investigation.

In a video message released Saturday, Kotlikoff addressed the distress felt across the Ithaca, New York, campus. He said Cornell must confront questions about the reported assault, the university’s handling of the complaint and the safety of students in social settings.

“This has been one of the most difficult weeks in our history, and I know many of you are angry, saddened, and struggling,” Kotlikoff said.

Former student alleges assault at fraternity event

The former student, identified in court records as Jane Doe, filed a lawsuit last month against Cornell, seven men and other defendants. She alleges that she was drugged with ketamine and assaulted by seven members of Cornell’s Chi Phi fraternity chapter when she was 20 in October 2024.

The men named in the lawsuit have denied wrongdoing. The allegations have not resulted in criminal convictions, and the civil claims remain subject to the court process.

Cornell University president vows rigorous review of the institution’s response, saying allegations must be examined carefully and fairly while due-process rights are respected.

“We must also investigate allegations rigorously and fairly, including providing due process,” Kotlikoff said.

Outside law firm to examine Cornell’s response

Kotlikoff said Cornell’s board of trustees and university leadership support an investigation by an outside law firm into every aspect of the university’s response to the 2024 matter. The review is separate from the criminal investigation and is expected to focus on institutional decisions, procedures and accountability.

He described the reported experience of Jane Doe as deeply troubling and said the case raises wider concerns about sexual assault, dehumanization, party culture, alcohol and drug use, as well as the way complaints are investigated.

“My heart aches when I think of what she experienced,” Kotlikoff said.

The Cornell University president vows rigorous steps before the reviews are completed, arguing that the university should act to improve safety and accountability rather than wait for final findings.

New York reopens criminal investigation

The criminal investigation was reopened on Monday. New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James to lead the renewed inquiry.

Hochul criticized the initial investigation, saying the complainant had spent hours speaking with police about her account.

“She sat for hours and told [police] exactly what happened to her,” Hochul said. “And according to new reports, she could not have been clearer that she was 100 percent confident that she had been raped.”

No criminal charges were initially filed against the accused men. The reopened investigation does not determine guilt or resolve the allegations; it means state authorities will re-examine the evidence and circumstances surrounding the reported assault.

Greek life and campus safety under scrutiny

Kotlikoff said Cornell will closely examine the role of fraternities and sororities in campus life. While Greek organizations can provide friendship, mentoring and community, he said group membership cannot reduce an individual’s responsibility for their conduct.

“But being part of a group can never diminish individual responsibility,” he said.

The university plans to hear from students, alumni and other members of the Cornell community as it considers changes. Cornell University president vows rigorous accountability as the school faces renewed scrutiny over its policies, culture and response to reports of sexual violence.

FAQ for Cornell students and families

What is Cornell’s independent review?

Cornell plans to use an outside law firm to examine how the university responded to the 2024 allegations. Its review is distinct from the state criminal investigation.

Who is leading the reopened criminal investigation?

Governor Kathy Hochul appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James to lead the renewed investigation.

Have criminal charges been filed?

No criminal charges were initially filed. The reopened investigation will assess the evidence and determine whether further action is warranted.

What should students do if they need support?

Students affected by sexual violence or concerned about immediate safety should seek urgent help from local emergency services, campus support resources or a trusted medical and advocacy provider.