New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James have vowed to thoroughly investigate an alleged sexual assault case at Cornell University. Governor Hochul signed an executive order appointing Attorney General James as a special prosecutor to handle the inquiry. This decision comes after newly released information raised serious questions regarding the initial investigation by the Cornell Police Department and the choice by the Tompkins County District Attorney not to pursue criminal charges following an alleged incident at a campus fraternity house in October 2024. Hochul stated that these developments severely undermined public trust and her own confidence in the local district attorney’s office to effectively manage the case. Under the newly appointed special prosecutor, the office will examine all the facts, conduct an independent investigation, and, if warranted, present evidence to a grand jury. Attorney General James emphasized that her office is fully prepared to lead a fair and comprehensive process that New Yorkers can trust. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Cornell University noted that the institution supports the governor’s decision to assign the matter to the state attorney general’s office.
Source: nbcnews.com
