District attorney reopens case of alleged Cornell University 'gang rape'

Key Points:

• Tompkins County prosecutors are reopening the investigation into an alleged 2024 gang rape at Cornell University's Chi Phi fraternity after a civil lawsuit reignited public outrage, with the DA considering new criminal charges.
• The initial decision not to press charges was based on the woman’s 2024 statement, which did not allege non-consensual drugging or forced sexual acts, but the new lawsuit presents different allegations and evidence, including a group chat cited as critical by the plaintiff’s attorney.
• Cornell University has maintained that it conducted a thorough Title IX investigation resulting in expulsions and suspensions, while emphasizing the fraternity chapter remains banned and denying claims of inadequate disciplinary action.
• Attorneys for some defendants have denied all allegations, with one calling the claims false and expressing intent to contest them in court, while another acknowledged sending a message included in the complaint but denied involvement in sexual activity or drug use.
• The district attorney acknowledged relying on the Cornell Police investigation initially and noted that the new evidence and the plaintiff’s cooperation will be presented to a grand jury for further review.