One of the most prestigious universities in the United States of America, Cornell University has banned social events at student fraternity houses through the end of the academic year.
The decision was made following a lawsuit alleging that a woman was drugged and sexually assaulted by multiple people at a party in 2024.
The woman, identified in court documents as Jane Doe to protect her identity, filed the lawsuit last month. Her allegations have intensified scrutiny of the university’s handling of sexual assault complaints.
Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff expressed concern over the alleged incident and said the university needed to address women’s safety concerns and acknowledge institutional shortcomings. He warned that students who violate the restrictions could face suspension of their enrollment.
The university also announced additional staff to support sexual assault survivors and improvements to its complaint-reporting system. Specially trained New York State Police personnel will assist with investigations.
Questions have also emerged over how local prosecutors handled the case. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten said his office received only a six-page statement from the woman and some social media messages from Cornell in 2024.
State officials have raised concerns about the decision not to prosecute and the lack of independent witness interviews. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has tasked Attorney General Letitia James with investigating the matter.
The woman’s lawyer said she had also received threats following the alleged assault.
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