New York prosecutors have reopened an investigation into an alleged 2024 gang rape at a Cornell University fraternity house. The move follows a civil lawsuit filed this month that renewed public attention over the case.
Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten confirmed that prosecutors will present the case involving seven alleged perpetrators to a grand jury. The grand jury could decide whether to issue indictments against those accused.
Prosecutors Explain Earlier Decision
Van Houten also addressed why his office did not pursue criminal charges in 2024. He said the allegations in the recent lawsuit differed from the account the alleged victim gave campus police at that time.
According to Van Houten, the woman described her drug use and sexual conduct as voluntary and consensual in her original statement. However, the civil lawsuit presents a different account of the events at the fraternity house.
The lawsuit names seven Chi Phi fraternity members, Cornell University and other defendants. It alleges that fraternity members supplied the woman, then a 20-year-old Cornell student, with alcohol and drugs until she became too intoxicated to consent.
Lawsuit Renews Scrutiny Of Fraternity
The lawsuit also alleges that fraternity members used a Snapchat group chat to encourage others to participate. It includes photographs of messages and details concerning the alleged assault.
Cornell spokesperson Kyle Kimball said the university supports Van Houten’s decision to reopen the investigation. He added that the Chi Phi chapter involved has remained barred from campus since 2024.
Cornell previously investigated the allegations and imposed sanctions, including expulsions and suspensions, according to the university. Meanwhile, the reopened criminal investigation will now move before a grand jury for further consideration.
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