Tuesday, September 29, 2026 - New York prosecutors have reopened a criminal investigation into allegations that a woman was sexually assaulted by seven Cornell University students at a fraternity house in 2024.
Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten said the case will now be presented to a grand jury, following renewed attention after the woman filed a civil lawsuit this month.
The lawsuit alleges that the then-20-year-old student was given alcohol and drugs before being sexually assaulted at the Chi Phi fraternity house. Prosecutors did not bring criminal charges in 2024, saying her initial statement to campus police described her drug use and sexual activity as voluntary.
Her attorney disputes that account and has criticized the earlier investigation. The allegations remain allegations, and the renewed criminal investigation has not resulted in charges at this stage.
Cornell University says it supports the reopened investigation and has previously conducted its own disciplinary proceedings, resulting in expulsions and suspensions.
The Chi Phi chapter involved was closed in 2024 and remains barred from campus. The grand jury review now places the allegations back under criminal scrutiny as prosecutors examine whether the available evidence supports further legal action.
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