New York governor vows to unravel failures in Cornell sexual assault investigation

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she is “deeply disturbed” with the original investigation conducted by Cornell police following gang rape allegations at the Chi Phi fraternity house in 2024, vowing to unravel the investigation’s failures.

• Hochul also said she supports closing a “loophole” in New York law that can make it nearly impossible for survivors to seek justice if they voluntarily consumed alcohol or drugs before an assault.

• Attorney General Letitia James, who will be taking over as special prosecutor, said there is now “an active criminal investigation.” When asked about her appointment, President Donald Trump attacked James, a frequent target of his ire, although he appeared unfamiliar with the case. He also said the men accused in the case “won’t get a fair shake” from her.