Why has a Cornell rape investigation been reopened?

US prosecutors have reopened the case of an alleged gang rape at Cornell University following a civil lawsuit filed by a woman identified as Jane Doe. Doe alleges she was drugged and raped at a fraternity house in 2024. Her lawyer stated she was traumatized and unable to immediately report the full extent of the incident, criticizing the initial law enforcement response. The lawsuit also claims Cornell University failed to adequately protect Doe or punish those involved, alleging perpetrators were allowed to submit essays. Cornell University has disputed these claims, stating its campus police investigated, the Chi Phi fraternity chapter and some students were suspended, and internal and Title IX investigations were opened.

The University of Arizona has suspended its Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity chapter following allegations of hazing. University officials informed the chapter in September that it is under investigation for violating the student code of conduct, including endangering members. According to a letter from the university, new members were allegedly forced to consume large quantities of alcohol and live goldfish, along with experiencing screaming, degradation, and threats. This incident is the latest in a series of hazing cases at US universities. The Sigma Tau Gamma chapter is banned from all activities except essential business meetings while the investigation concludes. The university has investigated six fraternity chapters for hazing in 2026.

Prosecutors in New York have reopened an investigation into an alleged gang-rape at a Cornell University fraternity house. The incident, which occurred in October 2024 at the Chi Phi fraternity, involved a student who claims she was drugged and repeatedly raped over seven hours. The reopening of the investigation follows public outcry over the perceived leniency shown to seven fraternity members named as perpetrators in a civil lawsuit filed by the student. While two members were expelled, others reportedly faced lesser sanctions. The district attorney stated the investigation is being re-examined due to allegations in the lawsuit that differ from the initial police statement. Cornell University has stated the Chi Phi chapter remains barred from campus.