Cornell University has agreed to hire outside counsel for an independent investigation into a 2024 alleged gang rape case, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday, according to CBS New York.
Hochul said she requested the review after renewed scrutiny of the case. She also said her administration would examine ways to strengthen protections for sexual assault survivors.
The Tompkins County District Attorney's Office previously said there was insufficient evidence for charges. However, District Attorney Matthew Van Houten reopened the investigation after the lawsuit.
He said a transcript of the alleged victim's campus police interview had not been provided to him. Cornell said its police department had submitted its investigation results to prosecutors.
Related Tweet:
I want answers. And I want accountability.
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) September 30, 2026
I spoke with Cornell’s president today, and the university has agreed to bring in outside counsel for an independent investigation.
I’ve directed my team to look at what more we can do to strengthen protections for survivors.
This… pic.twitter.com/yDLOgi4svz
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