Cornell University President Michael I. Kotlikoff acknowledged on Saturday that the administration must do better following criticism of its handling of a 2024 gang-rape allegation against a former student, identified as Jane Doe.
The university’s response comes after Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten revealed this week that his office never received the full transcript of Jane Doe’s two-day interview with campus police, conducted in November 2024. Instead, the DA said he was only provided a six-page sworn statement based on that interview. The discrepancy emerged as part of an ongoing review of the case, which has drawn scrutiny over Cornell’s investigative procedures and transparency.
Cornell’s Initial Response and Correction
In an October 1 FAQ update, Cornell stated it had shared the victim’s sworn statement and a Snapchat group chat screenshot with the DA’s office, asserting this was the established protocol when a crime may have occurred. However, Van Houten’s revelation contradicts this claim, raising questions about the completeness of evidence provided to law enforcement. The Snapchat screenshot referenced messages from members of the Chi Phi fraternity sent the night of the alleged assault.
Legal and Institutional Fallout
Jane Doe filed a lawsuit last month against Cornell and seven men, alleging she was drugged and raped at the Chi Phi fraternity in October 2024 when she was 20. The Tompkins County DA concluded in 2024 that there was insufficient evidence to support criminal charges, and no charges have been filed. Despite this, the DA’s recent statement suggests the full investigative record was not shared, prompting further scrutiny of Cornell’s Title IX and police procedures.
Kotlikoff, in a video message, expressed regret over the university’s handling of the case, stating, “We must do everything we can to prevent what happened to Jane Doe and everyone before her and anyone after her from ever happening again.” He acknowledged the emotional toll on the campus community, saying, “This has been one of the most difficult weeks in our history.”
Ongoing Investigations and Policy Reforms
The DA’s office has not indicated whether the missing transcript would have altered its 2024 decision not to pursue charges. Cornell has not publicly detailed what steps it will take to address the procedural gaps identified, though Kotlikoff’s remarks suggest a commitment to improving campus safety protocols and reviewing investigative practices.
The case remains under review by both university and law enforcement officials, with no timeline provided for additional updates.