Key facts
- New York State Police will investigate future sexual assault complaints at Cornell University.
- Governor Kathy Hochul announced the new protocol on Thursday.
- The agreement was made following criticism of the university's handling of an alleged gang-rape.
- A civil lawsuit alleges fraternity members drugged and assaulted a student in October 2024.
- Cornell's Faculty Senate is holding a vote of no confidence in the university administration.
New York State Police will assume responsibility for future sexual assault investigations at Cornell University, Governor Kathy Hochul announced Thursday. The decision stems from widespread criticism of the university's handling of an alleged gang-rape incident involving members of the Chi Phi fraternity. Under the new agreement, sexual offense complaints will be referred to state police for criminal investigation unless the accuser requests otherwise. The announcement follows a civil lawsuit filed by Jane Doe, who alleges she was drugged and assaulted in October 2024. While Cornell disciplined some students, no criminal charges were filed, leading to calls for greater transparency. Separately, Cornell's Faculty Senate is initiating a vote of no confidence in the university's central administration.