Controversial Allegations Resurface: Cornell University Fraternity Under Investigation
Allegations of sexual assault have once again put a spotlight on Cornell University and one of its fraternities. A former student, identified only as Jane Doe, claims she was drugged and raped by seven members of the Chi Pi fraternity in October 2024. Although no criminal charges were initially filed, a civil lawsuit has reignited the case, prompting the Tompkins County District Attorney to reconsider the lack of legal action.
In a statement to ABC News, District Attorney Matthew Van Houten expressed his office’s intent to evaluate whether new evidence might lead to criminal charges. He noted discrepancies between the lawsuit’s claims and the initial police statement, which lacked allegations of rape or non-consensual drugging. “It’s our intention to present the case to the Tompkins County grand jury with Jane Doe’s cooperation,” Van Houten said.
Jane Doe’s attorney, Thomas P. Giuffra, criticized the handling of the initial investigation, arguing that university police were not adequately trained to manage such sensitive allegations. “In my experience, speaking with an abuse survivor requires delicacy, understanding, and specialized training,” Giuffra stated. He believes that the evidence, including a critical screenshot of a fraternity group chat, was overlooked.
The civil complaint against the fraternity asserts claims of negligence, breach of contract, and violations of New York’s Human Rights Law. Jane Doe alleges she was pressured into taking drugs and was subsequently sexually assaulted while incapacitated. A message allegedly sent to a fraternity chat group during the incident is cited as evidence of encouragement for further assaults.
Cornell University responded by emphasizing the seriousness with which it handled the matter, stating that the Chi Phi chapter faced suspensions and expulsions following a Title IX investigation. “Any suggestion that the University did not impose consequential punishments for those involved is false,” the university remarked in a public statement.
Attorneys for some of the accused fraternity members have refuted the allegations. Scott Kretzschmar’s attorney, Jeremy Saland, stated, “At bottom, Scott never sexually assaulted or even touched the plaintiff in any way. Period.” Another defendant, Scott Norris, acknowledged sending a Snapchat message but denied any involvement in the alleged assaults.
Jane Doe has shared her ordeal, stating, “What I experienced from those who raped me in the fraternity was the worst experience of my life. It affects every aspect of my life. It will haunt me and be part of me the rest of my life.”
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