Jane Doe, a junior at Cornell University, filed a civil suit in September 2024 accusing seven Chi Phi fraternity members of drugging and raping her during a fall gathering. The claim stems from an October 2024 incident where the student was allegedly given alcohol, marijuana and ketamine before becoming incapacitated.
Thomas Giuffra, representing Doe, told CNN that both he and his client have received threats aimed at forcing them to drop the lawsuit. He added that the intimidation appears designed to preserve the status quo and silence scrutiny.
Following the civil suit, District Attorney Matthew Van Houten reopened the criminal investigation and prepared evidence for a grand jury, but Gov. Kathy Hochul announced she had lost faith in his oversight. She appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor, shifting the investigation to state level.
Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff said the university would review the role of fraternities and sororities, noting that while these groups offer community, they cannot absolve individual responsibility. Student activists across campus have demanded stricter oversight and transparent reporting.
James’ office is expected to file indictments within the next month, and the civil lawsuit continues to seek damages and institutional reforms.