Cornell University has appointed former acting U.S. Attorney General Sally Yates to lead an independent investigation into the institution’s handling of rape allegations brought forward by a former student. The announcement follows widespread campus and national outrage stemming from a civil lawsuit filed in mid-September by a woman identified as Jane Doe. In the lawsuit, the former student alleges she was drugged and gang-raped by seven men for several hours in October 2024 at the Chi Phi fraternity house on campus. No criminal charges have been filed, and the individuals named in the suit have strongly denied any wrongdoing. Cornell University is also named as a defendant in the legal action. Yates, a partner at King & Spalding who served as U.S. deputy attorney general under President Barack Obama, was selected by a newly formed Special Committee of the Cornell University Board of Trustees. Alongside reviewing the specifics of the Jane Doe matter, Yates and her team will examine broader institutional policies regarding how the university prevents and responds to sexual harassment, assault, and related campus misconduct. Anne Meinig Smalling, chair of the special committee, emphasized that Yates brings extraordinary experience and independence to the role. The review aims to identify areas for improvement and recommend changes to enhance community safety. While Cornell has maintained that its police force thoroughly investigated the case and that its separate Title IX review led to suspensions and expulsions, student protests have erupted over the administration’s response. The case has also drawn scrutiny from state officials. New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed state Attorney General Letitia James to lead a criminal investigation into the matter following sharp criticism directed at campus police and local prosecutor Matthew Van Houten. The unfolding legal proceedings continue to fuel national discussions regarding consent and sexual assault policies at universities.
Source: npr.org
