Jane Doe alleges drugging and rape by Cornell students, faces threats
Quick Look
Jane Doe alleges she was drugged and raped by seven Cornell University students in 2024; her lawyer says she and he have received threats to silence her since filing a lawsuit last month, prompting criticism of New York prosecutors and leading to the appointment of Letitia James as special prosecutor, which Donald Trump criticized.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Jane Doe filed a lawsuit alleging she was drugged and raped by seven Cornell University students in 2024. Since filing, she and her lawyer have received threats to silence her. New York prosecutors have faced criticism for their initial handling of the allegations.
In short:
The woman identified as Jane Doe in the Cornell University case has been threatened to silence, her lawyer says.
Jane Doe alleges that she was drugged and raped by seven Cornell University students in 2024.
Since the lawsuit was filed last month, prosecutors in New York have been criticised for their initial handling of the allegations.
The woman who has alleged that she was drugged and raped by several Cornell University students has been the target of threats, her lawyer says.
Thomas Giuffra, who represents the woman identified as Jane Doe, has told CNN that people have threatened to silence or harm her if she does not withdraw her civil lawsuit.
"She's received multiple threats," Mr Giuffra said on CNN's State of the Union.
Her lawyer said he had also been threatened.
"I'm not afraid of these people," he said.
"But the threats, the abuse to protect what's going on, the status quo — these guys are disgusting. They should stay in their mother's basement and stay out of the world."
Cornell president vows 'serious look' at fraternities
In a video, Cornell University president Michael Kotlikoff said that the university would examine the role of fraternities and sororities on campus following the outcry over the school's handling of the 2024 rape allegations.
"At their best, these organisations can provide students with friendship, belonging, mentorship and a powerful sense of community," he said.
"But being part of a group can never diminish individual responsibility."
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Since the lawsuit was filed last month, prosecutors in New York have been criticised for their initial handling of the allegations in 2024.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul last week named state Attorney-General Letitia James as special prosecutor to look into the case.
US President Donald Trump, a critic of Ms James for years, lambasted the decision to appoint her.
"And I feel badly for whoever she's looking at because they won't get a fair shake," Mr Trump told reporters on Friday.
Asked about the president's comment, Mr Giuffra said the case should not be politicised.
"It has nothing to do with politics," he said.
Reuters
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Letitia James will conduct a special prosecutor investigation into the handling of the allegations by New York prosecutors.
Very likely · Within months
Cornell University will review and potentially change policies regarding fraternities and sororities on campus.
Likely · Within months
Open Questions
- Who are the seven Cornell University students accused in the lawsuit?
- What evidence supports the allegations of drugging and rape?
- Have any criminal charges been filed against the accused students?
- What specific threats have been made against Jane Doe and her lawyer?