CBS News New York has obtained records of Cornell University’s Title IX investigation into alleged gang rape at a fraternity, providing detailed insight into the incident and its aftermath. The documents feature interviews with Jane Doe, six of the seven men implicated in her civil lawsuit, and 20 witnesses. Some content is graphic, reflecting the severe nature of the allegations.
Witness accounts vary. One roommate recollects Doe discussing the event with laughter, possibly indicating shock, without explicitly labeling it as rape or assault. Another roommate mentioned Doe expressing discomfort and later confronting one of the men, accusing him of having penetrative sex while she was heavily influenced by ketamine.
In November, during her Title IX interview, Doe mentioned lacking the necessary enthusiasm associated with consent, detailing how she was tired, uncomfortable, and pressured into further substance use. Her ability to make decisions became unclear at some point, leaving her vulnerable.
Accused men shared their perspectives. One reported asking Doe for consent to take ketamine from her body, claiming she agreed. Scott Kretzschmar, another accused, stated he was present briefly, neither saw Doe naked nor used drugs. He recalled her responding as “I’m good” when asked about her condition, perceiving no intoxication.
The lawsuit targets seven men with varying allegations, including four facing rape charges. Kretzschmar’s attorney, Jeremy Saland, denies accusations of snorting ketamine from Doe’s body, criticizing Cornell’s allegedly biased Title IX process favoring Doe over the accused.
Cornell’s Title IX investigation spanned several months, involving trained faculty and staff, leading to sanctions like expulsions and suspensions. The case has elicited public outrage and scrutiny over Cornell University and its police’s response, prompting the district attorney to revisit the initially closed investigation.
CBS News New York continues to examine the findings as the legal proceedings unfold.
