Hochul denounces 'bare minimum' by local prosecutor in Cornell rape investigation

Key Points:

• New York Governor Kathy Hochul criticized Cornell University Police, the Tompkins County District Attorney, and state rape laws for failing the Cornell rape accuser, Jane Doe, and announced Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor in the case.
• Attorney General James confirmed an active criminal investigation and committed to a full and fair inquiry, emphasizing the importance of victims being seen and heard in the justice system.
• Hochul highlighted failures including incomplete police reporting to the district attorney and the DA's failure to interview the victim, calling for urgent changes to state laws regarding voluntary intoxication in sexual assault cases.
• Tompkins County DA Matt Van Houten stated he believed no crime occurred based on the police report but supported the governor's decision to remove him and pledged cooperation with the attorney general.
• Jane Doe's attorney and Cornell University both expressed support for the appointment of a special prosecutor, citing contradictions between the district attorney's and police's statements.