Hochul Names James Prosecutor in Cornell Assault Investigation

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor to lead the criminal investigation into allegations that a former Cornell University student was sexually assaulted by members of the Chi Phi fraternity in 2024. Hochul also said she would work with state lawmakers to change how New York law treats incapacity to consent after voluntary intoxication, though no legislation has been enacted. Hochul signed an executive order Thursday transferring authority over the investigation from Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten to James. James said her office would investigate and pursue prosecution if the evidence warrants it, potentially presenting evidence to a grand jury. The appointment is not a charging decision, and no criminal charges had been filed as of Friday, October 2. The woman, identified as Jane Doe in a civil lawsuit, alleges that fraternity members sexually assaulted her at the Cornell house in October 2024. The allegation has not been established. The lawsuit renewed scrutiny of the case after Van Houten’s office initially declined to bring charges.