The Tompkins County district attorney declined to review additional evidence in the Cornell University rape inquiry despite campus police conducting numerous interviews and gathering tips. Records show prosecutors agreed criminal charges would not be pursued based solely on Jane Doe’s six-page statement, which described the encounter as voluntary and consensual. On Nov. 25, 2024, Cornell investigator Jeffrey Northrop informed DA staff member Jeff Huddle of additional police work, but prosecutors expressed no interest.
Gov. Kathy Hochul later criticized the handling and appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor. DA Matthew Van Houten defended the decision, stating Jane Doe’s account did not constitute a crime under New York law.
Experts, including former prosecutor Rick Trunfio, criticized the reliance on campus police and failure to interview Jane Doe or seek broader inquiry. All accused men deny wrongdoing; none have been charged.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing