Cornell University President comments on rape scandal
4 october 2026 в 17:37
Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff spoke out about the alleged gang rape that occurred in 2024 involving several fraternity members. In a video address on October 3, he noted that the incident, in which a student was harmed, raises deep concerns and will impact the university community for many years to come.
Kotlikoff emphasized that the case raises serious questions about sexual violence, dehumanization, and party culture, as well as alcohol and drug consumption. He also stated that an investigation is necessary to determine how the university responded to reports of the incident.
According to information provided by the victim’s attorney, the student, known as Jane Doe, filed a lawsuit in September, claiming that the incident occurred at the Chi Phi fraternity house on October 19, 2024. She stated that she arrived at the fraternity alone after a party and was forced to consume cocaine, marijuana, and alcohol. Doe claims that the assault began with two fraternity brothers but later involved others.
Two of the seven fraternity members allegedly involved in the attack were expelled, while others received less severe punishments, such as writing essays or attending seminars. Criminal charges were not filed when Doe reported to the police several weeks after the incident. She ultimately left the university.
Kotlikoff confirmed that Cornell has initiated an independent review of the situation, engaging an external law firm to ascertain the facts of the university’s initial response to the allegations. He also supported the appointment of New York State Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to re-investigate the case.
Kotlikoff promised that the university would not wait for the investigation to conclude before taking action. He noted that changes may be needed in fraternity life to ensure individual accountability and student safety.
Doe’s attorney, Thomas Giffra, told NBC News that his client is struggling and undergoing extensive treatment following the alleged assault. He noted that public support has been important for her during this difficult time. Attorneys for several fraternity members allegedly involved in the incident have denied the allegations.
Kotlikoff emphasized that the case raises serious questions about sexual violence, dehumanization, and party culture, as well as alcohol and drug consumption. He also stated that an investigation is necessary to determine how the university responded to reports of the incident.
According to information provided by the victim’s attorney, the student, known as Jane Doe, filed a lawsuit in September, claiming that the incident occurred at the Chi Phi fraternity house on October 19, 2024. She stated that she arrived at the fraternity alone after a party and was forced to consume cocaine, marijuana, and alcohol. Doe claims that the assault began with two fraternity brothers but later involved others.
Two of the seven fraternity members allegedly involved in the attack were expelled, while others received less severe punishments, such as writing essays or attending seminars. Criminal charges were not filed when Doe reported to the police several weeks after the incident. She ultimately left the university.
Kotlikoff confirmed that Cornell has initiated an independent review of the situation, engaging an external law firm to ascertain the facts of the university’s initial response to the allegations. He also supported the appointment of New York State Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to re-investigate the case.
Kotlikoff promised that the university would not wait for the investigation to conclude before taking action. He noted that changes may be needed in fraternity life to ensure individual accountability and student safety.
Doe’s attorney, Thomas Giffra, told NBC News that his client is struggling and undergoing extensive treatment following the alleged assault. He noted that public support has been important for her during this difficult time. Attorneys for several fraternity members allegedly involved in the incident have denied the allegations.
© Smirnova Olga
