New York State Police to Investigate All Sex Crimes at Cornell University

New York State Police will now investigate all sex crime complaints at Cornell University, Governor Kathy Hochul announced Thursday. This change transfers jurisdiction from the university's police department to state authorities, a move prompted by intense backlash over the school's handling of sexual assault allegations.

"When someone reports sexual assault, they deserve to know their allegations will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated by law enforcement trained to support survivors," Hochul stated. "Survivors should be able to trust the institutions responsible for protecting them."

The agreement comes as Cornell faces scrutiny following a civil lawsuit filed in September by a student, identified as Jane Doe. The lawsuit alleges she was drugged and raped by seven men at a fraternity house on campus in 2024. The student claims Cornell failed to protect her and inadequately address the perpetrators, who have become known as the Cornell Seven.

Governor Hochul previously expressed deep concern regarding the university's initial handling of the investigation. Earlier this month, she appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to oversee a reopened investigation into potential criminal charges.

In response to the allegations, Cornell University had announced measures including adding sexual assault investigators to its police force. However, the university's Faculty Senate is scheduled to hold a vote of no-confidence against the administration and President Michael Kotlikoff, running from Friday until November 6. While largely symbolic, the vote could escalate pressure for changes in university leadership.