New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday issued an executive order appointing Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor to investigate an alleged sexual assault that occurred at a Cornell University fraternity in 2024. A student alleged that seven fraternity members sexually assaulted her.
Hochul cited concerns about the initial investigation and prosecution decisions. "Newly released information continues to raise serious questions about the investigation conducted by the Cornell Police Department and the decision by the Tompkins County District Attorney not to prosecute an alleged sexual assault on Cornell University's campus," Hochul said in a statement.
The governor said the concerns had affected public confidence in the local prosecutor's office. "This has, in turn, undercut my faith, and the public's faith, in the District Attorney's ability to effectively investigate and prosecute the case at this time," Hochul added.
Matthew Van Houten, the Tompkins County District Attorney, had decided not to prosecute the case. Hochul's appointment of James as special prosecutor removes the matter from his jurisdiction.
In her statement, James said she is prepared to lead the investigation. "The young woman at the center of this case deserves to know that every fact will be examined and justice pursued," Hochul said. "This action will ensure that the matter is fully and thoroughly investigated without conflict or bias, and handled independently with the rigor that this matter demands."
James stated she is "ready to lead a process New Yorkers can trust," according to her statement on the appointment.