Cornell rape allegation details alleged assault in fraternity closet
A Cornell student alleges she was repeatedly raped in a Chi Phi fraternity closet while losing consciousness, according to the university's Title IX report.
Cornell University’s Title IX investigation disclosed that a sophomore, referred to as Jane Doe, claimed two Chi Phi fraternity brothers escorted her into a closet and repeatedly raped her while she drifted in and out of consciousness on Oct. 19, 2024. She told investigators she felt like bait and described the situation as a "totally debilitating" experience. The investigation also uncovered Snapchat exchanges among the accused, including a photo of Jane Doe and crude remarks about "free p—y" and a question about whether a shop was still open.
The alleged perpetrators allegedly shared the image in a group chat. The case was reopened with New York Attorney General Letitia James acting as special prosecutor, replacing the local district attorney, but no criminal charges have been filed to date. The university continues to review the evidence and may pursue further action.
Why it matters
The case highlights ongoing concerns about campus sexual violence and the role of state prosecutors in university investigations.
How this story developed
- Sep 25 Student thought to be Korean named among defendants in Cornell sexual assault lawsuit
- Sep 28 Cornell confirmed the Chi Phi fraternity chapter remains barred from operating on campus.
- Sep 29 DA released excerpts of the survivor’s police statement and senior prosecutor began preparing the case for a grand jury.
- Oct 1 Cornell has agreed to bring in an outside firm to investigate allegations of a gang rape on campus.
- Oct 1 Cornell President Michael I. Kotlikoff approved an independent third‑party investigation into the university’s handling of the 2024 fraternity assault allegations.
- Oct 2 Jane Doe filed a civil lawsuit alleging assault by former fraternity members.
- Oct 2 State officials have stepped in to review the university’s handling of the allegations.
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