Cornell University agrees to independent investigation into alleged rape case, Gov. Kathy Hochul says, tell me about this news in (https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/cornell-university-alleged-gang-rape-independent-investigation/)

Here is an overview of the news article from CBS News New York:

Cornell Agrees to Independent Investigation

New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Cornell University has agreed to hire outside counsel to carry out an independent investigation into an alleged gang rape case from 2024. Hochul stated that she called for the investigation and that the university’s president agreed, with an official announcement from Cornell expected soon. She also noted that she directed her administration to explore ways to strengthen protections for sexual assault survivors across college campuses in the state.

Background of the Allegations and Lawsuit

• The Incident & Lawsuit: A former female student filed a lawsuit against Cornell University and seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity. She alleges that she was drugged and raped by multiple men at the fraternity house in October 2024.

• University Sanctions: According to the lawsuit, Cornell’s internal investigation led to two students being expelled, while others faced lesser penalties such as suspensions and mandatory essays. No criminal arrests were made at the time.

• Claims Against the School: The lawsuit accuses Cornell and other defendants of failing to protect the alleged victim and failing to prevent the assault.

Reopened Criminal Investigation

• Initial Decision: The Tompkins County District Attorney’s office had previously reviewed the police files and concluded there was insufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges, citing a six-page statement signed by the complainant.

• New Developments: Following the filing of the civil suit, the District Attorney, Matthew Van Houten, announced the criminal investigation would be reopened.

• Discrepancy Over Evidence: When CBS News New York showed the DA a transcript of the victim’s interview with campus policewhich CBS obtained exclusivelythe DA said he had never seen that transcript before and pledged to follow up. In response, Cornell University stated that its campus police department had turned over all results from the university’s investigation to the DA’s office.