Statement from Governor Hochul on the Cornell University Sexual Assault Case

“Newly released information continues to raise serious questions about the investigation conducted by the Cornell Police Department and the decision by the Tompkins County District Attorney not to prosecute an alleged sexual assault on Cornell University's campus in October 2024. This has, in turn, undercut my faith, and the public's faith, in the District Attorney’s ability to effectively investigate and prosecute the case at this time.

“For this reason, I have issued an executive order appointing Attorney General James as special prosecutor in this case. As special prosecutor, the Attorney General will investigate this incident and, if warranted, prosecute any offenses arising from that investigation and present evidence to a grand jury.

“The young woman at the center of this case deserves to know that every fact will be examined and justice pursued. This action will ensure that the matter is fully and thoroughly investigated without conflict or bias, and handled independently with the rigor that this matter demands.”