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Hochul Names Letitia James Special Prosecutor in Cornell Rape Case

By Drooid · Oct 6, 2026, 2:08 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Hochul Appoints Special Prosecutor

Governor Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor in the Cornell rape case.
James announced an investigation of the alleged Oct. 19, 2024 rape at Cornell’s Chi Phi house.
Governor Hochul said the information raises questions about Cornell police and the district attorney’s handling.
Jane Doe sued, alleging seven Chi Phi members drugged and raped her on Oct. 19, 2024.
Attorney Andrew Miltenberg urged James to recuse herself because of her statements.

Summary

Students Demand Review

Students held a two-hour forum where dozens voiced anger, grief, and personal assault experiences.
The Interfraternity Council voted unanimously to cancel all weekend social events.
Twenty campus groups organized a protest demanding an independent review of Cornell’s sexual assault policies.
Celebrity Olivia Rodrigo posted an Instagram story condemning Cornell and supporting Jane Doe.
The university expelled two accused students and suspended five, requiring essay assignments.

History

Historical Context

In 2011, the U.S. Department of Education issued Title IX guidance after the University of Virginia’s mishandled sexual-assault cases, mandating campus investigations. Secretary Arne Duncan announced that 30% more complaints surged nationwide, prompting the Office for Civil Rights to audit 150 institutions, including Cornell. Today, Governor Kathy Hochul’s appointment of Letitia James mirrors that federal push, as students demand independent reviews of Cornell’s handling of the Oct 19, 2024 assault. The precedent suggests heightened oversight may force universities to adopt transparent policies, potentially reshaping disciplinary procedures and restoring campus trust.

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Hochul Appoints Special Prosecutor

Governor Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor in the Cornell rape case.
James announced an investigation of the alleged Oct. 19, 2024 rape at Cornell’s Chi Phi house.
Governor Hochul said the information raises questions about Cornell police and the district attorney’s handling.
Jane Doe sued, alleging seven Chi Phi members drugged and raped her on Oct. 19, 2024.
Attorney Andrew Miltenberg urged James to recuse herself because of her statements.

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