Investigation of alleged gang-rape at Cornell University fraternity house reopened

Key Points:

• New York prosecutors have reopened the investigation into the alleged gang-rape of a Cornell University student after public outcry over lenient treatment of seven fraternity members accused in the 2024 incident.
• The student, who filed a civil lawsuit, alleges she was drugged and raped over seven hours by members of the Chi Phi fraternity, with only two expelled and none arrested; others faced minor disciplinary actions.
• Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten stated the case will be presented to a grand jury, citing new allegations in the lawsuit that differ significantly from the original police statement.
• The university barred the Chi Phi fraternity chapter and conducted inquiries but cited federal privacy laws limiting disclosure; the victim’s attorney criticized the lack of legal consequences and inadequate police follow-up.
• Actress Florence Pugh publicly supported the victim, calling for societal change to end complicity in such behavior and emphasizing the need for men to lead conversations against sexual violence.