New details are emerging in a Cornell University rape investigation after media organizations obtained a six-page statement that a female student gave to campus police in 2024. The student, now identifying herself as Jane Doe in a civil lawsuit, accused members of a campus fraternity of drugging and sexually assaulting her. According to the document, she arrived at the house after drinking and described a scenario where she was offered ketamine and other substances, leaving her feeling unable to make decisions due to intoxication. The lawsuit alleges that seven men assaulted her over several hours. Questions have mounted regarding why local prosecutors initially declined to bring charges back in 2024. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten stated that the initial written statement provided by campus police did not contain a quote where the student expressed high confidence that she was raped, noting that the initial review concluded there was not enough evidence for criminal charges. Following intense public scrutiny and the filing of the lawsuit, District Attorney Van Houten announced that the criminal investigation has been reopened and will be presented to a grand jury. Additionally, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Cornell University agreed to bring in outside counsel for an independent investigation, and state Attorney General Letitia James was appointed as special prosecutor. Attorneys representing the accused fraternity members have denied any criminal wrongdoing as authorities continue to review the case files and evidence.
Source: nbcnews.com
