Cornell student’s 2024 statement to police reveals new details about the night of her alleged rape

Key Points:

• A Cornell University student, Jane Doe, provided a sworn police statement detailing an alleged gang rape and drugging at a Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024, describing extreme intoxication, coercion, and memory gaps during the incident.
• The lawsuit filed in September 2024 accuses seven fraternity members of sexual assault and ketamine use, sparking national outrage and prompting the Tompkins County District Attorney to reopen the case despite initially declining charges due to "insufficient evidence."
• District Attorney Matthew Van Houten defended his initial decision, stating Doe’s statement described voluntary drug use and sexual activity, and did not meet the legal standard for lack of consent or incapacitation under New York law.
• Cornell University conducted a Title IX investigation resulting in sanctions including expulsions and suspensions, though details remain confidential; the fraternity remains suspended from campus, and accused students deny the allegations.
• New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Cornell will bring in outside counsel for an independent review of the university’s handling of the case amid ongoing public scrutiny.