"I am deeply disturbed by the sexual assault case at Cornell University two years ago and the fact that this case was dismissed by a powerful academic institution, despite the evidence presented. This incident raises serious concerns about how sexual assault allegations are handled and whether survivors are being given a meaningful opportunity to seek justice and safety.

Upon the allegations being proven in court, the seven perpetrators should be held responsible to the fullest extent of the law. As men, we need to change the culture around consent and hold each other accountable. We need to intervene when other men normalize sexual violence. There is never an excuse for taking advantage of someone who is unable to consent. It starts with us.

I support Governor Hochul’s call for an investigation into Cornell University’s handling of this deeply troubling incident. I am glad to see that the District Attorney’s Office reopened the case, but it was only because of the bravery that the young woman displayed by continuing her fight for justice. 

She survived a horrific experience and her story is a painful reminder that we have so much work to do to ensure our institutions and our justice system treats survivors with dignity and support while holding sexual predators accountable."