Cornell Bans Fraternity Parties Amid Ongoing Rape Case
Cornell University suspends fraternity parties for the 2026-2027 academic year following a 2024 gang rape allegation.
2 min read
Cornell University has suspended all fraternity house parties for the remainder of the 2026-2027 academic year as an ongoing investigation into a 2024 gang rape allegation continues to draw national attention. President Michael Kotlikoff announced the ban in a letter to the campus community, stating that the decision was made after weeks of protests over a lawsuit alleging seven Chi Phi brothers drugged and gang-raped a female student in October 2024.
Suspension and Review Process
Kotlikoff emphasized that the suspension of all social gatherings in Interfraternity Council (IFC) houses is a measure to allow for a thorough review of the university’s Greek life system. The president stated that the ban would provide time to determine whether and how fraternity life can safely continue at Cornell. He also warned that any fraternity holding an in-house party or social event would face an immediate emergency suspension.
According to the letter, the administration is working with community members to find alternative ways for students to engage in social activities on campus. Kotlikoff also described the alleged actions of the seven Chi Phi brothers as sexual violence, though the case remains under investigation.
Legal and Investigative Developments
New York State Police investigators are handling on-campus sexual assault allegations, while an external review by former Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates is underway. The university did not immediately respond to the Daily Caller News Foundation’s request for comment.
A former student, identified as Jane Doe, sued Cornell and the seven Chi Phi members on September 16 over allegations that the fraternity brothers drugged her with ketamine and raped her in October 2024. Attorney General Letitia James took over the case as special prosecutor on October 1 at the direction of Democratic New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
Tomkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten stated in a September 28 press release that Jane Doe’s statement described her participation in drug use and sexual conduct as voluntary, conscious, and consensual, which led to the reopening of the 2024 investigation.
Source: Daily Caller
