New York prosecutors reopen investigation after student files lawsuit over alleged gang rape at Cornell University, tell me about this news in (https://www.cnn.com/2026/09/28/us/cornell-university-sexual-assault-lawsuit-hnk)
28-09-2026
New York prosecutors in Tompkins County have reopened a criminal investigation into allegations that members of Cornell University’s Chi Phi fraternity drugged and gang-raped a former student in October 2024.
India TodayHere are the key points of the report:
Background of the Allegations: The former student, filing under the pseudonym Jane Doe, submitted a civil lawsuit detailing an incident that occurred at the Chi Phi fraternity house. She alleges she was coerced into ingesting drugsincluding what was described as ketaminemixed with alcohol, rendering her incapacitated before being repeatedly assaulted.
India Today+ 1Key Evidence Cited: The lawsuit contains evidence such as a screenshot from a Snapchat group titled “Chi Phi Actives,” in which one of the fraternity members posted a crude invitation informing other members that she was incapacitated upstairs and inviting them into the room.
India TodayReason for Reopening the Criminal Probe: In late 2024, law enforcement initially reviewed the matter but closed it without filing criminal charges, citing insufficient evidence. However, Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten announced that his office has reopened the case following the lawsuit’s extensive documentation and widespread public attention. He stated that his office plans to present the case to a grand jury if additional evidence and the victim’s cooperation warrant criminal charges.
India Today+ 2Institutional Action & Current Status: Following an internal Title IX investigation conducted earlier by Cornell University, two students were reportedly expelled, disciplinary sanctions were imposed on others, and the Chi Phi chapter was suspended from campus. The civil lawsuit remains ongoing against Cornell University and seven named individuals, while prosecutors reassess the criminal evidence.
www.theweek.in+ 1