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In Cornell investigation, Gov. Hochul says special prosecutor Letitia James will find out "how was this woman denied justice"
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- New York Governor Kathy Hochul has appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor to investigate the alleged gang rape case at Cornell University, citing concerns over how local authorities handled the case.
- Hochul criticized the initial investigation, highlighting that key allegations were not properly communicated to prosecutors and that the Tompkins County DA's office did not interview the victim or involved parties before deciding not to prosecute.
- Attorney General James pledged a thorough, fact-based criminal investigation, including evidence review and witness interviews, with potential prosecution if warranted.
- The case has exposed a legal gap regarding consent and intoxication in New York law, which Hochul intends to address with lawmakers to ensure voluntary intoxication does not excuse sexual assault.
- Cornell University supports the appointment of a special prosecutor and an independent review of its handling of the case; meanwhile, the victim has filed a lawsuit against the university and seven men, while the DA's office has reopened the investigation.
