Tompkins County prosecutors have reopened their investigation into allegations that seven Cornell University fraternity members drugged and sexually assaulted a former student in 2024.
The case is being reopened after a civil lawsuit was filed by the student earlier this month which caused a widespread public backlash.
Less than two weeks ago, a 101-page lawsuit was filed in New York Supreme Court by a former Cornell student identified as Jane Doe.
District attorney says case will be reexamined
District Attorney Matthew Van Houten said the allegations described in the civil lawsuit differ substantially from the information initially reviewed by his office in late 2024. Giuffra further added, “In my experience, speaking with an abuse survivor requires delicacy, understanding and specialized training. An average University Police officer would not have these skills. It would be the role of a specially trained detective or district attorney. However, Ms. Doe was never contacted by anybody with those skills. The lawsuit named seven former Chi Phi fraternity members and alleged the assault began after Jane Doe arrived at the fraternity house following a night out with friends.
He said prosecutors want to determine whether evidence now available could justify criminal charges. He also acknowledged that his office relied heavily on Cornell University Police during the original review and did not “independently investigate” the allegations. Van Houten further said a Snapchat group chat referenced in the lawsuit had not previously been provided to prosecutors. One fraternity member allegedly sent a message to a group chat inviting others to participate in the assault, according to the complaint.
