NY AG Steps In as Cornell Rape Case Reopened: ‘Active Criminal Investigation’ Launched

New York AG Letitia James takes over Cornell rape case after governor criticizes local prosecutors. New investigation launched.

Editorial Desk

October 2, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — New York, United States — New York’s top law enforcement official has taken control of a criminal probe into a sexual assault case at Cornell University, following criticism from Governor Kathy Hochul about the handling of the incident.

The case involves a 20-year-old sophomore who alleges she was drugged and raped by multiple men at the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024. The woman reported the attack to campus police, but no criminal charges were ever filed.

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After a new lawsuit was filed, Hochul appointed State Attorney General Letitia James to lead the investigation, calling it an active criminal probe. The governor criticized local prosecutors for failing the victim, while the district attorney has indicated he may reconsider his stance amid growing public pressure.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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