Kathy Hochul, the Governor of New York, stated on Friday that she would ensure all facts surrounding the alleged gang-rape at a fraternity house at Cornell University are revealed, criticizing the institution for its handling of the case. Hochul described the woman involved as having been "failed" by those responsible for her protection, including the police and the county prosecutor.
“"I’m deeply disturbed at Cornell University’s police and how they handled this," Hochul said during a press conference in Ithaca, New York.
In a significant legal development, Hochul announced that Letitia James, the state attorney general, would take over the case as a special prosecutor.
“"I will not allow anyone to sweep this case under the rug," Hochul emphasized. "Every New Yorker deserves to know that when they report a crime, they will be investigated fully and fairly. They will be seen and heard."
James will oversee the investigation and may present evidence to a grand jury, potentially leading to criminal charges. Hochul criticized the initial investigation that began in 2024 after the woman reported the incident to the police.
“"In what world would the police learn from a victim that she’d been literally gang-raped while intoxicated by five men in a fraternity house, and not elevate those allegations to the district attorney?" Hochul questioned.
The governor also pointed out a "gap in state law" regarding claims of sexual crimes when the alleged victim was voluntarily intoxicated.
“"If someone is too intoxicated to consent, it should not matter whether they chose to use drugs or alcohol. Voluntary intoxication is not a license for sexual assault or gang-rape. Period," she stated.
