NY DA Reopens 2024 Cornell Campus Sexual Assault Case
Tompkins County DA is presenting evidence on a 2024 Cornell sexual assault to a grand jury.
Why it matters: Universities face rising legal pressure to address campus sexual assault. This case highlights risks and compliance challenges for legal teams advising higher education institutions.
- In October 2024, a Cornell student alleged sexual assault by seven Chi Phi fraternity members after being forced to consume alcohol and drugs.
- The alleged victim filed a civil lawsuit on September 16, 2026, naming the accused, Chi Phi fraternity, Cornell University, and an Ithaca bar.
- On September 28, 2026, DA Matthew Van Houten announced evidence would be presented to a grand jury to reconsider criminal charges.
- Cornell’s 2024 internal investigation led to expulsions, suspensions, and closure of the Chi Phi chapter, which remains banned.
Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten announced on September 28, 2026 that his office is presenting evidence to a grand jury regarding a 2024 sexual assault allegation at Cornell University, reopening the criminal investigation.
The allegations involve a female student who says seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity assaulted her in October 2024 after forcing her to consume alcohol, ketamine, and marijuana. Cornell’s internal inquiry resulted in expulsions, suspensions, and the closure of the Chi Phi chapter, which remains barred from campus.
The alleged victim filed a civil lawsuit on September 16, 2026, naming the seven men, Chi Phi fraternity, Cornell University, and an Ithaca bar as defendants. The suit seeks damages beyond criminal prosecution.
A 2025 university survey found 35% of undergraduate women reported nonconsensual sexual contact, up from 23% in 2023, underscoring ongoing campus safety concerns.
DA Van Houten said, "Our intention is to present this case to the Tompkins County grand jury with the cooperation of Jane Doe," referring to the alleged victim. Cornell’s Vice President Ryan Lombardi stated, "Sexual misconduct of any kind cannot and will not be tolerated in the Cornell community," reaffirming their commitment to addressing such issues.
This reopening highlights the increasing legal scrutiny universities face in sexual assault cases and the complex interplay of criminal and civil actions in campus safety matters.
For legal professionals, the case underscores the importance of navigating both university disciplinary processes and civil litigation risks while advising educational institutions.
By the numbers:
- 35% — undergraduate women reporting nonconsensual sexual contact in 2025, up from 23% in 2023