Investigation into Alleged Incident at Cornell University

CBS News New York has examined records related to Cornell University’s Title IX investigation of an alleged gang rape at a fraternity. These records provide details on Jane Doe’s account of the incident and the subsequent days, along with recollections from those around her. The documents include interviews with Doe, six of the seven men named in her civil lawsuit, and 20 witnesses.

According to a roommate, Doe described the morning after the alleged event at Cornell’s Chi Phi house in October 2024 as “crazy” and laughed about it, although appearing to be in shock. Initially, she did not label it as rape or assault. Another roommate said Doe mentioned feeling “uncomfortable” and later told one of the men involved, “I wasn’t comfortable.” In a different instance, at a later time, Doe stated, “I had so much ketamine, my eyes were crossed, and you still had sex with me,” during a conversation with one of the accused.

Transcripts from Cornell’s Title IX investigation, shared in January 2025, contain these accounts. CBS News New York acquired these documents through a source. They form part of the investigation’s record but do not include the hearing minutes, reasoning, or final conclusions of the Title IX panel.

In her November Title IX interview, Doe explained that she lacked “excitement and enthusiasm, which is kinda the basis of consent.” She recalled telling the men she was tired and didn’t want to continue and shared that she sometimes felt encouraged to consume more substances. She couldn’t specify when she lost her ability to make decisions, but noted whispering to one man about her discomfort.

The accused men also provided their perspectives. One of them claimed he asked Doe if he could use ketamine from her body, to which she supposedly consented. Scott Kretzschmar, another accused, reported being in the room for “tops, five minutes,” denying seeing her naked or consuming drugs. He said he inquired if Doe was okay and received the response “I’m good,” as she did not appear inebriated.

The lawsuit mentions seven men, with various allegations against each. Four face specific accusations of rape. The allegation against Kretzschmar involves using ketamine from Doe’s body, which his attorney Jeremy Saland disputes. Saland argued that Cornell’s Title IX process was biased in favor of Doe.

Cornell stated that the Title IX process spanned months, involved a hearing with a panel of trained staff and faculty, and resulted in sanctions such as expulsions and suspensions. The gang rape allegations provoked anger and inquiries about how Cornell University and its police managed the case. Although the district attorney initially chose not to file charges, the investigation has been reopened.

CBS News New York’s investigative unit continues to review the records.