CBS News New York has acquired new information concerning the alleged gang rape lawsuit at Cornell University. The Tompkins County district attorney has decided to reopen the criminal case, citing discrepancies between the victim’s initial statement and the allegations in the lawsuit.

Exclusive Video of Fraternity’s Group Snapchat

CBS News New York has obtained exclusive video footage from the fraternity’s group Snapchat on the night a former Cornell student claims she was drugged and raped at the Chi Phi fraternity house. At 1:42 a.m. on the night of the alleged incident, a group chat message suggested that a woman was available for sex. A fraternity brother asked if the “shop (was) still open?” and received an affirmative response.

Victim’s Attorney’s Perspective

The woman’s attorney, Thomas Giuffra, representing “Jane Doe,” emphasized that none of the involved individuals has been arrested. Giuffra expressed frustration, noting, “Not one of these guys was arrested.”

Defense Attorney’s Response

Attorney Jeremy Saland represents Scott Kretzschmar, one of the seven individuals named in the lawsuit. The complaint accuses all seven of sexual assault and rape, with a specific claim against Kretzschmar for allegedly pouring ketamine onto Jane Doe’s body and snorting it. Saland denied these accusations, citing a hair follicle test showing no ketamine in Kretzschmar’s system. Saland argued that his client briefly entered the room, saw no evidence of duress, and departed.

District Attorney Reopens Case

Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten is reopening the criminal investigation. He highlighted that Jane Doe’s original sworn statement in November 2024 did not include claims of being drugged or gang raped. Van Houten noted that she described her actions as voluntary and consensual.

Despite this, Giuffra maintains that Jane Doe was traumatized and reacted in “self-preservation mode.” He criticized the initial investigation for not thoroughly examining evidence, including the group chat. A senior prosecutor with expertise in sex crimes is now preparing the case for the grand jury, allowing Jane Doe to testify and introduce new evidence.

Saland welcomes this development, stating confidence that the outcome will mirror previous findings with no charges. Cornell University supports the DA’s decision and cites its Title IX process, which led to sanctions after an extensive investigation.

Another Defendant’s Statement

Andrew Miltenberg, attorney for another defendant, Gillio Lopes, stated that Lopes denies all allegations. Miltenberg pointed out discrepancies between the current allegations and those initially investigated by Cornell. He emphasized the seriousness of the accusations and insisted that they must be proven through appropriate legal channels.

The case continues to unfold as new details emerge in this high-profile investigation.