A Cornell University student accused of sexual assault, Scott Kretzschmar, was disciplined with an essay assignment on preventing drug abuse as part of the university's Title IX investigation. Kretzschmar, one of seven Chi Phi fraternity members named in a lawsuit by Jane Doe, was found responsible for attempted sexual exploitation.
As part of his punishment, Kretzschmar was ordered to complete educational modules on sexual harassment, bystander intervention, and social media use. He was also required to write a reflection paper within 90 days, engaging with the circumstances for which he was found responsible, and was issued a no-contact order with the accuser. The lawsuit alleges Kretzschmar snorted ketamine off the accuser's body.
In parallel legal developments, Winston Lee, another defendant in the case, has hired Teny Geragos, Marc Agnifilo, and Jacob Kaplan of Agnifilo Intrater LLP to represent him. This firm has a history of representing high-profile clients, including Sean 'Diddy' Combs and Harvey Weinstein. Lee's legal team has filed a motion seeking to remove New York Attorney General Letitia James from the criminal investigation, alleging bias. They cite a Facebook post by James regarding the case as evidence of her prejudgment, arguing that her "public political stunt" demonstrates an intention to pursue charges regardless of evidence.
A similar motion was filed by Gillio Lopes, another accused individual, who asked the New York State Supreme Court to void Governor Kathy Hochul's appointment of James as special prosecutor. Lopes's arguments are scheduled to be heard imminently.
Cornell's investigation, which spanned several months and included at least 12 formal hearings, concluded in May 2025. While Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten decided not to file criminal charges against any of the seven men, the university imposed disciplinary actions. Matthew Ingalls and Jonathan Newell were expelled from Cornell. Lee and Lopes received suspensions and disciplinary probation. Diego Sarabia, accused of forcibly kissing the accuser, was issued a persona non grata order, barring him from campus, though he had already graduated. Scott Norris, like Kretzschmar, was ordered to complete courses and write a reflection paper.
All defendants have denied any wrongdoing, and no criminal charges have been filed in the case.