New York Governor Kathy Hochul sharply criticized Cornell University's police department and the local district attorney for their handling of sexual assault allegations made by a former student. Hochul expressed concern that the student had unequivocally told police in 2024 she had been raped at a fraternity house, yet that language was missing in the condensed statement sent to prosecutors, who declined to file criminal charges. "In what world would the police" not elevate such an allegation, Hochul asked, adding: "I am deeply disturbed by Cornell University's police and how they handled this."
The governor was joined by New York State Attorney General Letitia James, whom Hochul appointed to oversee a new investigation. James confirmed the case is now an active criminal investigation. The incident has reignited national debate over sexual assault on college campuses.
Prosecuting the case may prove challenging under current New York law, which makes it difficult to charge someone with rape if the accuser chose to become intoxicated. Governor Hochul urged state lawmakers to change that standard during remarks today.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing