Tompkins County DA explains decision to reopen Cornell sex assault case

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Tompkins County DA Matt Van Houten (file) Photo: Saga Communications/Joe Salzone/607 News Now

ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — Prosecutors in Tompkins County are re-examining an alleged group sex assault at Cornell in 2024.

District Attorney Matt Van Houten tells 607 News Now why charges weren’t filed against the 7 male students during the original investigation.

Jane Doe’s civil lawsuit includes more information than her 6-page statement nearly 2 years ago.

That was the basis for re-opening the case, Van Houten said. The Tompkins County grand jury will be presented a case before the end of 2027, the DA added.

Van Houten publicly announced on Monday, Sept. 28 that the case was being re-opened. Gov. Hochul has called for an independent investigation into Cornell’s existing policies. Ithaca Mayor Robert Cantelmo has revealed a new public safety effort in response to the renewed investigation.

FULL INTERVIEW: Tompkins County DA Matt Van Houten on 607 This Morning

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