Brief

Cornell prosecutor revives gang‑rape probe after lawsuit

The investigation will be presented to a grand jury after the accuser’s lawsuit prompted a review of the original case.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 28 Sep 2026 20:37:55 GMT

A New York prosecutor has reopened an investigation into gang‑rape allegations at Cornell University after a woman filed a lawsuit claiming she was assaulted by seven fraternity members in 2024. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten said Monday that his office will present evidence to a grand jury, responding to questions about why no criminal charges were brought earlier.

The lawsuit, filed on September 16, alleges the victim was pressured into snorting ketamine, smoking marijuana and drinking alcohol at the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024. She says the seven men assaulted her after she was drugged and that she was not able to make a formal claim of gang rape or drugging in her initial sworn statement to campus police.

Van Houten noted that he had never been contacted by the victim’s attorney regarding her statement or a reconsideration of the decision not to prosecute. He added that community outrage over the incomplete coverage of the case required an explanation for the lack of criminal charges.

The lawsuit also names the Chi Phi fraternity, the university, an Ithaca bar and other parties, seeking undisclosed damages. Cornell issued a brief statement confirming the allegations but did not comment on the prosecutor’s decision.

Key facts

Cornell prosecutor Matthew Van Houten reopened the probe (independent.co.uk)
Accuser filed lawsuit on September 16 (independent.co.uk)
Accuser claims assault by seven fraternity members in October 2024 (independent.co.uk)
Accuser was pressured into drug use before assault (independent.co.uk)
No criminal charges were brought before the lawsuit (independent.co.uk)

Background

Felo News has previously reported on legal disputes involving universities and student conduct, but this is the first coverage of the Cornell gang‑rape probe in the past week.