Cornell University Faces Scrutiny Over Handling of Fraternity Rape Allegations

Cornell brings in ex-Justice official Sally Yates to review handling of sex assault claims after student protests and legal action.

Editorial Desk

October 6, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Ithaca, N.Y. — Cornell University has announced the appointment of former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates to lead an independent review of its handling of sexual misconduct complaints following widespread student protests and legal challenges over a 2024 gang rape allegation at a fraternity house.

The Ivy League institution said Yates will assess how it investigates reports of sexual assault and harassment, the disciplinary process, and campus police responses. The move comes after days of outrage over the university’s response to a complaint from a woman known only as Jane Doe, who alleged she was sexually assaulted by multiple Chi Phi fraternity members in November 2024.

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Cornell’s decision follows a lawsuit filed by Jane Doe against the university, seven former students, the fraternity, and others last month. No criminal charges have been filed, but the Chi Phi chapter at Cornell was shut down, and some students were expelled or suspended. Yates, known for her work on Title IX investigations and high-profile inquiries into abuse and misconduct, will now oversee the review as part of an effort to address concerns about transparency and accountability.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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