Governor Hochul issues executive order appointing New York Attorney General James to be special prosecutor in Cornell rape case

ALBANY, NY- Governor Kathy Hochul says the Jane Doe in the Cornell University rape case was failed by those who took an oath to protect others.

Her statement blossoms in concert with one of her latest executive orders appointing the State Attorney General, Letitia James, as special prosecutor in the 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 Governor said.

“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.”

The case was originally closed in 2024 without any charges being filed.

Jane Doe has since filed a lawsuit against seven fraternity brothers – alleging she was piled with drugs and alcohol before being subjected to sexual acts.

New York State Capitol image.