Hundreds of students, faculty and local activists marched through Ithaca’s campus this Monday, chanting slogans demanding an independent inquiry into the campus gang‑rape case involving Jane Doe.
The march, estimated at around 1,000 participants, culminated at Cornell’s main administration building where protesters defaced the front door with graffiti reading “AT CORNELL RAPISTS ARE PROTECTED.”
Earlier this week, the state’s Attorney General Letitia James was appointed as a special prosecutor to re‑open the criminal inquiry that had stalled after a local prosecutor declined to file charges.
Jane Doe, a 20‑year‑old student, sued the Chi Phi fraternity on October 25, 2024, alleging she was drugged and assaulted while incapacitated, naming seven fraternity members, the chapter, a local bar, her sorority and the university.
President Michael Kotlikoff has pledged to review fraternity policies, while critics argue the campus has failed to enforce consistent sanctions and protect survivors.
James is expected to convene a panel of investigators by early next week to assess evidence and determine whether criminal charges will be filed.