Cornell plans review of rape case

Michael Kotlikoff responded to a student's allegation that fraternity members drugged and raped her. He backed an outside-law-firm review of Cornell's handling, scrutiny of fraternities and sororities, prevention measures and changes to state sexual-assault law. New York has reopened a criminal investigation under a special prosecutor.

• 2024year of alleged assault
• Seven mennamed in civil lawsuit
• One special prosecutorleading reopened criminal investigation

Q1

Why was the investigation reopened?

The local district attorney first declined to bring charges, citing insufficient evidence. New York’s governor then removed him and appointed a special prosecutor.

Q2

Why does New York law matter?

Current law can make prosecution harder when an accuser voluntarily drank or took drugs before becoming too intoxicated to consent.

Q3

Who is named in the lawsuit?

The civil lawsuit names Cornell, university leaders, a fraternity, the plaintiff’s sorority and several students as defendants.

Q4

Have defendants faced criminal charges?

No accused student has been charged. Some defense lawyers have denied criminal wrongdoing while the civil suit proceeds through court.