Alleged gang rape at Cornell University: What we know about the lawsuit and investigation

Key Points:

• A former Cornell student filed a 101-page lawsuit alleging she was drugged and gang raped by seven Chi Phi fraternity members in October 2024, prompting prosecutors to reopen the investigation for a grand jury review.
• The lawsuit accuses the fraternity members, Cornell University, and Chi Phi of negligence, breach of contract, sexual assault, and violations of New York’s Human Rights Law, and includes disturbing details such as a vulgar fraternity group chat encouraging the assault.
• Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten stated no charges were initially filed because the accuser’s 2024 police statement differed from the new allegations, and key evidence like text messages was only recently reviewed.
• Cornell University conducted a Title IX investigation resulting in expulsions and suspensions of some accused students and closed the Chi Phi chapter, but the lawsuit criticizes the university for inadequate discipline and silencing victims.
• Cornell supports the DA’s decision to allow a grand jury review and refutes claims of minimal consequences, emphasizing the importance of supporting survivors and addressing sexual assault seriously on campus.