Cornell University Bans All Fraternity Parties Amid Gang Sex Assault Allegations

Cornell University has indefinitely banned all fraternity parties following allegations of gang sex assault and criticism over the university's handling of the case. President Martha E. Pollack stated that the decision was made due to ongoing concerns about student safety and the need for "meaningful action."

"It is clear that women on our campus continue to question whether they are safe. We must meet this moment by acknowledging where we have fallen short and taking meaningful action," Pollack said.

Fraternities, which have long been a fixture on US campuses as all-male social clubs, have frequently been associated with issues such as binge drinking, partying, and hazing rituals. Violations of the new policy at the New York university will result in suspension for those involved.

The university also plans to enhance support services for survivors of sexual assault, including increasing staff to assist individuals in reporting misconduct and accessing other support systems. Under Title IX, the federal law mandating how universities address sexual assault claims, institutions are required to provide support measures to help survivors remain enrolled after an assault. In this case, the lawyer for the accuser, identified as Jane Doe, stated she withdrew from the university after the alleged assault.

Cornell will now permit New York State Police's trauma-informed officers to investigate sexual assault allegations on campus. These officers will interview survivors seeking to pursue criminal charges and compile "comprehensive investigative summaries for the appropriate law enforcement agency," according to Pollack.

The university has faced scrutiny regarding the information shared with the local district attorney's office concerning Jane Doe's allegations. Records obtained by US media outlets indicate that in 2024, the Tompkins County District Attorney's office received only a six-page statement from the victim and Snapchat messages from the fraternity party advertising a "free sexual encounter" with Doe. State officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, have criticized the district attorney's decision not to pursue charges or conduct interviews with victims and witnesses himself. Governor Hochul has appointed the state's attorney general, Letitia James, to investigate the case.

Pollack announced that Cornell will engage national sexual violence prevention experts to examine the "factors leading to campus sexual violence and strategies to promote responsible sexual citizenship." These measures are described as the initial steps toward "systematic change" on campus.