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Defence lawyer in Cornell University case calls for special prosecutor to be removed
Overview
A lawyer representing one of the men accused in an alleged Cornell University gang rape has asked New York Attorney General Letitia James to recuse herself as special prosecutor, citing social media comments that question the investigation's independence. Governor Kathy Hochul defended James, stating she will follow the facts and evidence. Meanwhile, Cornell University's administration faces a potential no-confidence vote by faculty following allegations of mishandling the October 2024 incident.
Key points
- A lawyer for one of seven men accused in a Cornell University gang rape case has called for special prosecutor and New York Attorney General Letitia James to recuse herself.
- The defence lawyer argues that a social media post by James expressing support for the survivor casts doubt on the investigation's integrity and independence.
- Governor Kathy Hochul defended James, stating she will follow the facts and evidence wherever they lead.
- Cornell University's Faculty Senate is reportedly facing a no-confidence vote over its alleged mishandling of the October 2024 incident.
- The case involves allegations by a woman, identified as Jane Doe, that she was drugged and raped by seven men at a fraternity party.