Before deciding against filing criminal charges in a reported gang rape case involving a Cornell University student, the Tompkins County District Attorney’s office declined to review additional materials gathered by campus police beyond a six-page summary of the victim’s statements. Documents reviewed by ABC News detail how the case unfolded following the initial allegations made by a then-20-year-old student who stated she was attacked at the Chi Phi fraternity house. On Nov. 25, 2024, Cornell University Police Department investigator Jeffrey Northrup contacted the DA’s office to report additional witness interviews, anonymous tips, and attorney contacts. Prosecutors had already determined they would not pursue charges based solely on the six-page summary. New York Governor Kathy Hochul removed Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten from the case, criticizing the local office and the university police for providing an incomplete record. Governor Hochul appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor to lead the investigation moving forward. Van Houten defended his initial decision, stating his office was not provided the full picture by the university and that the summary he received did not outline elements of criminal conduct under New York law. Cornell University issued a statement supporting the appointment of the special prosecutor and an independent external review of the university’s handling of the matter.
Source: abcnews.com
