In brief
A lawyer representing a defendant in the Cornell University rape inquiry has called for the special prosecutor, New York Attorney General Letitia James, to withdraw after she posted strong support for the alleged survivor on social media. James, named by Governor Kathy Hochul in late September, declared the victim’s ordeal horrific and unacceptable, adding that she stands with all survivors. The lawyer argued that the comments create doubts about impartiality and requested voluntary recusal to preserve public confidence. James and the governor emphasized that the investigation will rely on facts and follow the evidence. Faculty plan a no‑confidence vote next week, while campus protests continue to highlight concerns over the university’s response.
In a move that could reshape the Cornell University rape investigation, a lawyer representing one of the seven defendants has demanded that New York Attorney General Letitia James step aside.
James, appointed by Governor Kathy Hochul as the special prosecutor last month, had previously expressed strong support for the alleged survivor on the social‑media platform X.
She explained that the young woman’s experience was horrific and unacceptable, adding that she stands with her and all survivors.
The lawyer argued that James’s public remarks raise an avoidable question about the neutrality of the investigation and called for her voluntary recusal to protect its integrity.
Both James and Hochul have confirmed that the prosecutor will base her decisions on facts and follow the evidence wherever it leads.
Meanwhile, the Canon faculty senate is set to vote on a no‑confidence resolution next week, a symbolic gesture that signals deep unrest among Cornell faculty and adds pressure on campus leaders.
Students and faculty across the campus have gathered in large numbers, demonstrating against the university’s handling of the incident and demanding accountability.
