Ithaca Mayor Robert Cantelmo moved to restrict Cornell University student events after a 2024 sexual assault case resurfaced. His proposed moratorium followed a civil lawsuit and the reopening of a criminal investigation into allegations involving Chi Phi fraternity members.
Cantelmo said Cornell officials and police failed to coordinate with Ithaca police after the allegations emerged. His proposal covered Greek life and other student gatherings requiring city-issued special event permits.
Robert Cantelmo is pushing a moratorium on Cornell student events
WSYR reported that Cantelmo called Cornell’s response “appalling” and criticized the university’s handling of the allegations. “Despite the severity of these crimes, Cornell University administrators and police failed to contact or coordinate any response with the Ithaca Police Department,” he said. Cantelmo said the moratorium would continue until Cornell reviewed its sexual violence protocols. He also wanted the university to publicly release new standards for community safety.
The proposed policy covered large events needing city coordination, including certain gatherings involving Greek organizations. However, the Ithaca Common Council still needed to approve the resolution before it could formally take effect.
The controversy followed a civil lawsuit filed by a former Cornell student identified as Jane Doe. She alleged that seven Chi Phi members drugged and sexually assaulted her at the fraternity house in October 2024. The allegations remained unproven, and none of the accused had faced criminal charges. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten reopened the criminal investigation after the lawsuit surfaced. He said Jane Doe’s 2024 sworn statement differed from the account in her recent civil complaint. Her attorney disputed that characterization.
Cornell said its separate Title IX process resulted in sanctions, including suspensions and expulsions. The university also said the Chi Phi chapter closed in 2024 and remained barred from campus.
Cornell also responded directly to Cantelmo’s proposal. “Cornell shares the mayor’s interest in student well-being and safety. We will work with him to address his concerns,” a spokesperson said. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul also called for an independent review. She said there were “serious questions” about Cornell’s prevention, reporting and response systems.
The renewed scrutiny left Cornell facing questions from local officials, prosecutors and state leaders.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
