Cornell University Fraternity Faces Allegations in Sexual Assault Case

An alleged sexual assault involving the Chi Phi fraternity at Cornell University has sparked legal actions and investigations. Members of the fraternity reportedly shared a photo of the alleged victim on Snapchat during the night in question, October 2024.

The photo, shared among fraternity members, shows Jane Doe, a then-20-year-old student. In the chat, troubling comments were exchanged, reinforcing concerns about what occurred.

Jane Doe has filed a lawsuit against seven Cornell students and the university. Consequences for those accused varied: two expulsions, two suspensions, and others had different outcomes. None were arrested.

Two accused individuals have denied responsibility through their lawyers, while others remain silent. The Chi Phi fraternity house has been closed since 2024. In a new development, the Tompkins County District Attorney has reopened the case after the lawsuit. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has appointed Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor due to criticisms of how the case was managed.

CBS News acquired the findings of a Title IX investigation by Cornell University. Jane Doe testified in May 2025 that she felt vulnerable and unsupported the night she was allegedly attacked. She mentioned taking ketamine, which left her impaired.

The investigation involved interviews with Jane Doe, witnesses, and accused men, revealing conflicting narratives. Some accused claimed she appeared sober and consensual, while Jane Doe recounted feeling trapped and objectified, with men repeatedly entering the room.

Jane Doe described a traumatic experience of being taken to a closet by two men and losing consciousness. The investigation revealed a witness received a call from an accused man urging silence about the night’s events.

Following the alleged assault, some men apologized to Jane Doe. She gathered evidence, including the dress she wore. She visited a campus clinic two days later for a health issue linked to the trauma but was not referred for a rape kit.

A recent town hall showed Cornell students demanding institutional change. Jane Wang, from the Cornell American Civil Liberties Union, emphasized the need for survivors to be heard and supported by the institution.