Cornell hires former DOJ official for independent review as protests and vandalism escalate
Cornell University announced Tuesday that former US Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates will lead an independent review of the school’s response to the 2024 alleged gang rape of a student known as Jane Doe. This decision follows a week of intense unrest, including a 1,000-person protest, vandalism of administrative buildings, and a faculty motion for a vote of no confidence against President Michael Kotlikoff. While the university expelled two fraternity members in 2025, critics argue the disciplinary actions were insufficient. The controversy has intensified after New York Attorney General Letitia James took over the criminal investigation from the local district attorney, who declined to file charges. The independent review will assess whether Cornell followed its policies in handling the allegations, which involve seven Chi Phi fraternity members accused of drugging and assaulting the victim in October 2024.
