Ithaca's mayor has proposed a temporary moratorium on some Cornell student events after a 2024 sexual-assault allegation resurfaced in a civil lawsuit. The proposal targets large gatherings that require city special-event permits and would remain in place until Cornell completes a review of its sexual-violence protocols. Tompkins County prosecutors have reopened a criminal probe, and state leaders, including Gov. Kathy Hochul, have called for an independent review. Cornell says Title IX sanctions were issued and that the Chi Phi chapter is closed and barred from campus.
Ithaca Mayor Proposes Moratorium On Some Cornell Events After Fraternity Assault Allegations Resurface
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Ithaca Mayor Robert Cantelmo has proposed a temporary moratorium on certain Cornell University student events after a 2024 sexual-assault allegation resurfaced in a civil lawsuit. The mayor said the move is intended to protect community safety while Cornell reviews its protocols for preventing and responding to sexual violence.
What The Mayor Is Proposing
Cantelmo's proposal would limit large student gatherings that require city-issued special event permits, including some fraternity and sorority events, until the university completes a review of its sexual-violence procedures and publicly releases updated safety standards. The restriction would still need approval from the Ithaca Common Council to take effect.
“Despite the severity of these crimes, Cornell University administrators and police failed to contact or coordinate any response with the Ithaca Police Department,” Cantelmo said, calling the university's initial response “appalling.”
Background: The Allegations And Investigations
The controversy follows a civil lawsuit filed by a former Cornell student identified as Jane Doe, who alleges that seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity drugged and sexually assaulted her at the fraternity house in October 2024. Those allegations have not been proven in court, and none of the named individuals have been criminally charged.
After the civil complaint became public, Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten reopened a criminal investigation. Van Houten said Jane Doe's sworn statement from 2024 differs from the account in her recent civil filing; Jane Doe's attorney has disputed that characterization.
Cornell's Response
Cornell University said its separate Title IX process produced sanctions, including suspensions and expulsions, and noted that the Chi Phi chapter closed in 2024 and remains barred from campus. A university spokesperson said, “Cornell shares the mayor's interest in student well-being and safety. We will work with him to address his concerns.”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul also urged an independent review, saying there are “serious questions” about Cornell's prevention, reporting and response systems.
Ongoing Scrutiny
The renewed attention has left Cornell facing questions from local officials, prosecutors and state leaders as the community awaits the outcome of administrative and criminal reviews. The proposed moratorium is intended as a temporary public-safety measure while procedures and coordination between the university and local law enforcement are reassessed.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
Reporting note: The allegations in the civil suit are unproven. This article summarizes statements from the mayor, university and prosecutors, and reflects developments reported publicly. Source: Reality Tea and WSYR reporting.
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