NY governor vows to close loophole after alleged Cornell gang rape

New York Governor Kathy Hochul wants to change the law to make rape cases involving intoxicated victims easier to prosecute after an alleged gang rape at Cornell University.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul speaks during a press conference regarding an investigation into alleged sexual assault at Cornell University, in New York City, US, Oct 2, 2026. (Photo: REUTERS/Jeenah Moon)

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NEW YORK: New York Governor Kathy Hochul vowed Friday (Oct 2) to close a legal loophole allowing offenders in the state to avoid rape charges if their victims were willingly intoxicated, as in the case of an alleged gang rape at Cornell University .

There has been an outcry in the United States over a decision by prosecutors not to file charges in the case at the Ivy League college two years ago, prompting the governor to appoint state Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor.

The investigation was reopened on Monday after the alleged victim filed a civil lawsuit, fuelling allegations that the elite college failed to properly hold the men accountable.

The alleged victim said in her lawsuit that in 2024 she was drugged with ketamine, assaulted and raped by seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity, a social club for male students.

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